Dhaka – Bangladesh have named their 15-member squad for the 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup, with wicketkeeper-batter Nigar Sultana Joty set to continue as captain in what will be the country’s second appearance in the marquee event.

Nigar Sultana Joty to lead once again

Nigar, who also captained Bangladesh during their maiden Women’s Cricket World Cup campaign in 2022, will lead a side that blends experience with promising young talent. The squad announcement highlights Bangladesh’s intent to build on their steady progress in women’s cricket over recent years.

Rubya Haider earns maiden ODI call-up

One of the key talking points is the inclusion of Rubya Haider Jhelik, a wicketkeeper-batter who has featured in six T20Is for Bangladesh but will make her ODI debut at this World Cup. Chief selector Sazzad Ahmed Mansur described the move as part of the team’s strategy to add depth and flexibility to the batting line-up.

Young talents Nishita and Sumaiya add promise

Two young cricketers, Nishita Akter Nishi and Sumaiya Akter, have also made the cut. Nishita, the youngest member of the squad, debuted against Pakistan in 2023 and impressed with her left-arm spin, including a standout three-wicket haul against West Indies in the U19 Women’s T20 World Cup earlier this year.

Chief selector Mansur praised Nishita’s temperament:

“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, who captained Bangladesh at the U19 Women’s T20 World Cup in Malaysia and made her ODI debut against Australia in 2024, brings valuable all-round skills.

“Sumaiya has been knocking on the door for some time. With her ability to occupy the crease and accelerate when needed, she adds balance to our top order,” Mansur said.

Bangladesh squad for the World Cup

Nigar Sultana Joty (C), Nahida Akter, Farzana Haque, Rubya Haider Jhelik, Sharmin Akter Supta, Sobhana Mostary, Ritu Moni, Shorna Akter, Fahima Khatun, Rabeya Khan, Marufa Akter, Fariha Islam Trisna, Shanjida Akther Maghla, Nishita Akter Nishi, Sumaiya Akter.

Road ahead for Bangladesh

Bangladesh will open their Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 campaign against Pakistan on 2 October in Colombo. They secured their place in the eight-team tournament by finishing among the top two at the ICC Women’s World Cup Qualifier earlier this year.

In preparation, they will play warm-up matches against South Africa and Sri Lanka on 25 and 27 September, respectively. The team hopes to make a strong statement on the global stage as they aim for their best-ever World Cup performance.