The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) today announced the 15-member squad for the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025, set to be held in India and Sri Lanka from September 30 to November 2. The squad includes wicketkeeper-batter Rubya Haider Jhelik, off-spinner Nishita Akter Nishi, and top-order batter Sumaiya Akter, replacing Dilara Akter Dola, Jannatul Ferdous Sumona, and Ishma Tanjim respectively.
Rubya Haider Jhelik, who has previously represented Bangladesh in T20 internationals, is yet to play an ODI. She receives her first World Cup call-up following a period of consistent development with the bat and behind the stumps. Nishita Akter Nishi, the youngest member of the squad at 17 years, had made her international debut in 2023 during the ODI series against Pakistan. Sumaiya Akter, the former Bangladesh U19 captain, had played her only ODI against Australia in March last year.
Sumaiya, a technically sound top-order batter, enjoyed an impressive domestic season and followed it up with strong performances for the Bangladesh Emerging Team earlier this year. Sazzad Ahmed Mansur, Chief Selector of the BCB Women’s Wing, praised the selections. He said, “Rubya has earned her place through sheer hard work. Her development over the last six months has been outstanding. We see her as a valuable option both as a reserve keeper and a backup opener. Nishita is still young, but she bowls with great maturity. She is consistent, calm under pressure and her ability to contain left-handers gave her an edge. We believe this experience will serve her well and add depth to our spin attack. Sumaiya has been knocking on the door for some time. She brings the ability to occupy the crease and accelerate when needed. With her skill set and fielding standards, she gives us an all-round option in the top order.”
The squad features seasoned players alongside promising newcomers, reflecting the board's strategy to blend experience with youth. Nigar Sultana Joty will lead the team as captain, with Nahida Akter serving as vice-captain. Other members include Farzana Haque, Sharmin Akter Supta, Sobhana Mostary, Ritu Moni, Shorna Akter, Fahima Khatun, Rabeya Khan, Marufa Akter, Fariha Islam Trisna, Shanjida Akther Maghla, Nishita Akter Nishi, and Sumaiya Akter.
Bangladesh will face a challenging schedule in the tournament, starting with a match against South Africa on September 25 at the Colombo Cricket Club. The team will then play against Sri Lanka, Pakistan, England, New Zealand, South Africa again, Australia, Sri Lanka once more, and finally India. The semifinals are scheduled for October 29, with the final set for November 2. The tournament promises to be a rigorous test for the squad, showcasing their skills and resilience on the global stage.
