BAN W vs IND W: Bangladesh Women has announced the squad for their T20I series against India Women. And in a surprising turn of events, the Bangladesh Women’s cricket team has announced the exclusion of two prominent players, Jahanara Alam and Fargana Hoque, from the T20I squad for the India series. The decision, made ahead of the three-match series, has raised eyebrows and left fans speculating about the team’s strategy.
Jahanara Alam, renowned for her exceptional pace and swing bowling, has been a vital cog in the Bangladesh Women’s team for a considerable period. However, she only featured in a solitary match during their recent series against Sri Lanka in May. Alongside Jahanara, all-rounder Lata Mondal, left-arm quick Fariha Trisna, and left-handed batter Rubya Haider were also left out of the squad. Unfortunately, Rubya Haider’s absence is due to a knee injury.
In a bid to strengthen the team, experienced campaigner Salma Khatun has returned to the side, alongside batters Dilara Akter, Shathi Rani, and the promising 16-year-old Shorna Akter. Additionally, pace bowler Marufa Akter has been included. Salma, Dilara, and Marufa were not part of the squad for the previous Sri Lanka series, with selector Manjurul Islam explaining Salma’s absence as a “rest” due to the demanding cricket calendar this year.
Selector Sajjad avoided commenting on Jahanara & Fargana’s Exclusion
Selector Sajjad Ahmed expressed the intention to bolster the spin attack with Salma’s return while highlighting the potential of Dilara, Shathi, and Shorna in the T20 format. Sajjad refrained from commenting on the exclusion of the dropped players, citing his recent appointment to the role.
Bangladesh’s batting lineup will rely heavily on captain Nigar Sultana and Shamima Sultana, with support from Dilara, Sobhana Mostary, Murshida Khatun, and Shorna. A noteworthy addition to the squad is the uncapped Shathi Rani, who impressed with her performance in domestic cricket and may open the innings in one of the matches.
The spin department will play a crucial role, as only two pacers, Marufa Akter, and uncapped Disha Biswas, were selected. Bangladesh’s spin attack bolsters experienced players in the face of Salma, Fahima Khatun, Nahida Akter, Ritu Mondol, Sanjida Akter, and Sultana Khatun.
Meanwhile, the Indian team is scheduled to arrive in Dhaka on July 6 for the three T20Is, which will take place on July 9, 11, and 13 at the esteemed Shere Bangla National Stadium.
BAN W vs IND W: Bangladesh Women’s Squad for T20Is against India:
Nahida Akter, Dilara Akter, Shathi Rani, Nigar Sultana (captain, wicketkeeper), Shamima Sultana, Sobhana Mostary, Murshida Khatun, Shorna Akter, Ritu Moni, Disha Biswas, Marufa Akter, Sanjida Akter Meghla, Rabeya Khan, Sultana Khatun, Salma Khatun, and Fahima Khatun.
Also read, IND Vs WI 2023: BCCI Announces Squad For T20I Series