Bangladesh Name Women's World Cup Squad: Dilara, Jannatul, Ishma Left Out; Three New Faces Included
Bangladesh have named their 15-member squad for the 2025 ICC Women’s World Cup, set to begin in October, with the inclusion of three fresh faces and the exclusion of some familiar names. Teenagers Nishita Akter and Sumaiya Akter, along with 28-year-old wicketkeeper-batter Rubya Haider, have earned call-ups, while Dilara Akter, Jannatul Ferdus and Ishma Tanjim have been dropped.
Nishita, a 17-year-old offspinner, and Sumaiya, a 19-year-old top-order batter, were part of Bangladesh's campaign at the Women’s Under-19 T20 World Cup in Malaysia earlier this year. Neither has featured for the senior side in 2025, while Rubya, who has played six T20Is, is yet to make her ODI debut.
Despite their inexperience — the trio collectively have three ODIs and seven T20Is under their belt — selectors are confident in their potential. Rubya is expected to act as the back-up wicketkeeper and opening batter behind captain Nigar Sultana.
"Rubya has earned her place through sheer hard work," said women's chief selector Sajjad Ahmed. "Her development over the last six months has been outstanding. She is a valuable option both as a reserve keeper and a back-up opener."
On Nishita, Ahmed praised her temperament and control. "She bowls with great maturity and consistency. Her ability to contain left-handers gave her an edge."
Sumaiya was lauded for her patience and fielding skills. "She brings the ability to occupy the crease and accelerate when needed. With her fielding standards, she’s a strong all-round option in the top order," Sajjad added.
The squad sees the return of experienced players like vice-captain Nahida Akter, Fargana Hoque, Fahima Khatun, and fast bowler Marufa Akter. The team’s preparation has largely included intra-squad matches and fixtures against the Under-15 boys’ side, owing to a lack of international fixtures since the World Cup Qualifier in April. Bangladesh qualified for the main tournament ahead of West Indies by a narrow net run rate margin of 0.013.
The Women’s World Cup, hosted by India, will begin in October. Bangladesh will open their campaign against Pakistan on October 2 in Colombo, which will host all of Pakistan’s matches.
Bangladesh squad for Women’s World Cup 2025
Nigar Sultana (capt), Nahida Akter (vice-capt), Fargana Hoque, Rubya Haider, Sharmin Akhter, Sobhana Mostary, Ritu Moni, Shorna Akter, Fahima Khatun, Rabeya Khan, Marufa Akter, Fariha Trisna, Sanjida Akter, Nishita Akter, Sumaiya Akter
IN: Rubya Haider, Nishita Akter, Sumaiya Akter
OUT: Dilara Akter, Jannatul Ferdus, Ishma Tanjim