Bangladesh Names Youth-Focused Squad for Women's World Cup 2025

The Bangladesh Cricket Board has announced a 15-member squad for the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025, with Nigar Sultana continuing as captain and Nahida Akter as vice-captain. The squad notably includes two uncapped teenagers, 17-year-old off-spinner Nishita Akter and 19-year-old batter Sumaiya Akter, both recently featured in the Under-19 T20 World Cup, signaling Bangladesh’s commitment to youth development. Wicketkeeper-batter Rubya Haider, who has played six T20Is, also earned her maiden ODI call-up and will serve as a backup opener and reserve wicketkeeper. The spin department, featuring experienced players like Nahid Akter and Fahima Khatun alongside young talents, is expected to play a pivotal role in the tournament. Selectors expressed confidence in the newcomers’ maturity, consistency, and all-round capabilities, hoping their inclusion will add depth and flexibility to the team. Bangladesh will begin their World Cup campaign against Pakistan in Colombo, aiming to improve on their seventh-place finish from the 2022 World Cup.