Sunday, 5th April 2026
Khabor Wala Desk
Published: 8th January 2026, 11:47 PM
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has officially announced a 15-member squad for the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier, set to take place in Nepal. The squad, led by veteran wicketkeeper-batter Nigar Sultana Joty, features a blend of seasoned campaigners and emerging talent, most notably the inclusion of the uncapped Juairia Ferdous.
The Bangladesh contingent is scheduled to depart for Kathmandu on 12 January 2026. This tournament marks a critical juncture for the “Tigresses,” who have been out of the T20 International circuit since their tour of the West Indies in January 2025.
The selection committee has opted for a “youth-first” approach by handing a maiden call-up to the 20-year-old Juairia Ferdous. A specialist wicketkeeper, Juairia impressed talent scouts during her stint with the Bangladesh Under-19 team in last year’s World Cup. Her inclusion comes at the expense of Lata Mondal and Taj Nehar, both of whom were part of the previous Caribbean tour but have failed to retain their spots in the qualifying roster.
The qualifiers, commencing on 18 June 2026 in Nepal, serve as the final hurdle for teams aiming to secure a berth in the main event, which is slated to be held in England during June and July.
Bangladesh has been placed in Group A, where they will face stiff competition from Ireland, as well as emerging sides Namibia, Papua New Guinea, and the United States. Following the initial group stages, the top three teams from each group will advance to the “Super Six” phase. Ultimately, only the top four teams from the Super Six standings will earn the coveted ticket to the United Kingdom.
Table: Bangladesh Women’s T20 Qualifier Squad 2026
| Role | Primary Squad | Standby Players |
|---|---|---|
| Captain | Nigar Sultana Joty (wk) | Sharmin Sultana |
| Vice-Captain | Nahida Akter | — |
| Batters | Sobhana Mostary, Farzana Hoque, Sharmin Akter | Farzana Yasmin |
| Wicketkeepers | Dilara Akter, Juairia Ferdous (New) | — |
| All-rounders | Ritu Moni, Shorna Akter, Fahima Khatun | Sharifa Khatun |
| Spinners | Rabeya Khan, Sultana Khatun | Fatema Jahan |
| Pacers | Marufa Akter, Fariha Islam, Sanjida Akter | Habiba Islam |
Under the leadership of Nigar Sultana and the deputy-ship of premier spinner Nahida Akter, Bangladesh looks to leverage their experience in Asian conditions. The spin department remains the team’s greatest strength, with Rabeya Khan and Sultana Khatun expected to play pivotal roles on the Kathmandu surfaces. The pace attack will be spearheaded by the young sensation Marufa Akter, whose ability to swing the new ball will be vital against top-order batters from Ireland and the USA.
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