Salma Khatun Becomes Bangladesh’s First Woman Selector

Salma Khatun Becomes Bangladesh’s First Woman Selector

In a historic move for Bangladesh cricket, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has appointed former national captain Salma Khatun as the country's first woman selector, marking a major step forward for women's involvement in cricket administration. Salma joins Sazzad Ahmed on the senior women's selection panel as the team gears up for the Women's World Cup next month.

Salma, a pioneer of women's cricket in Bangladesh, was the nation’s first-ever captain in international cricket. She led the side in 65 T20 Internationals and 18 One-Day Internationals, and was, until recently, Bangladesh’s most-capped women’s T20I cricketer with 95 matches. She also featured in 46 ODIs, bringing a wealth of experience to her new role.

A former world No. 1 WT20I bowler in 2014 and 2015, Salma claimed 84 T20I wickets with her offspin at an average of 18.57, including a career-best 4 for 6 against Sri Lanka.

“I think this is a revolutionary decision by our [BCB] president [Aminul Islam], as having someone like Salma involved will provide great support for women's cricket,” said Iftekhar Rahman, chairman of the BCB media committee.
“This is the first time such an appointment has been made in Bangladesh.”

Hasibul Hossain Joins Senior Men's Selection Panel

In another significant appointment, former Bangladesh fast bowler Hasibul Hossain has been promoted to the senior men's selection panel. He fills the position left vacant since Hannan Sarkar stepped down in February, joining chief selector Gazi Ashraf Hossain and Abdur Razzak.

Hasibul, a member of Bangladesh’s inaugural Test team in 2000 against India, played five Tests and 32 ODIs. He is also remembered for being part of the winning moment in the 1997 ICC Trophy final, where a leg-bye secured Bangladesh's historic title.

Since July 2016, Hasibul has served as a junior selector, working extensively with the Bangladesh Under-19 side, including the World Cup-winning squad of 2020.

These appointments reflect the BCB’s intent to strengthen its selection structures across both the men's and women's games, while also acknowledging the value of experience and legacy within the system.

Quick Facts:

  • Salma Khatun: Bangladesh’s first woman selector, former captain, 84 T20I wickets

  • Sazzad Ahmed: Continues as part of the women's selection panel

  • Hasibul Hossain: Promoted to men’s senior selection panel

  • Women's World Cup: Bangladesh in final stages of preparation

Related Articles:

  • Bangladesh women ramp up preparations ahead of World Cup

  • 2020 U19 World Cup: A defining moment for Hasibul’s young stars