Bangladeshi Expatriate Earns Spot in Malaysian National Cricket Team

When Najmus Sakib left Bangladesh in 2018 in search of better economic opportunities, few could have predicted that his passion for sport would follow him across borders. Today, through sheer perseverance and dedication, the 26-year-old expatriate worker has earned a place in the Malaysian national cricket team, completing a remarkable journey from amateur grounds to international fixtures.

Hailing from the Rupsha upazila of Khulna, Sakib lost his father at a young age, prompting him to seek employment overseas. He works for a commercial firm named ‘Silifocus SDN’ in the Negeri Sembilan province of Malaysia. Despite the grueling demands of his daily job, Sakib routinely dedicated his spare hours to playing tape-tennis cricket, a popular variant among South Asian migrants. It was on these local pitches that his natural talent caught the attention of several Malaysian national team players.

With guidance and support from two well-wishing members of the expatriate community, Sakib secured a trial with SSF Panthers, a prominent local cricket club. Operating as a dynamic wicketkeeper-batsman, his all-round capabilities quickly distinguished him in local club competitions.

Following three years of consistent domestic performances, national selectors extended an invitation for Sakib to join the Malaysia ‘A’ squad. He seized the opportunity during a Twenty20 match against Singapore, smashing a brilliant 122 runs off just 50 balls—an innings that cemented his credentials for top-tier selection.

His domestic success culminated in an international call-up for the ACC Men’s Premier Cup T20 tournament held in Oman. Sakib then made his official international debut for Malaysia on 8 June during the 50-over ACC Men’s Challenge Cup.

Sakib delivered an immediate impact during his maiden tournament. In a crucial, rain-affected match against Thailand, he blazed a rapid 57 runs off just 25 deliveries, guiding Malaysia into the final. Malaysia went on to defeat Thailand to claim the championship title.

Reflecting on his aspirations, Sakib expressed his desire to propel his adopted nation onto the global stage while honouring his roots. He aims to help Malaysia qualify for future ICC World Cups and break into the top 20 of the international rankings, adding that making his homeland of Bangladesh proud remains his ultimate motivation. His extraordinary rise from migrant worker to international athlete has sparked widespread celebration among the Bangladeshi diaspora across Malaysia.