Bangladesh fast bowler Jahanara Alam is hoping to resume her cricket career in her home country after spending the past two years in Australia. The 33-year-old has played local club cricket and undertaken training during her time there, and is now keen to return to domestic competition as well as pursue another opportunity with the national team.
Jahanara has recently contacted Rafiqul Islam, head of the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s (BCB) women’s wing, to express her interest in returning to the country’s cricketing set-up. However, a comeback to international cricket is not guaranteed. Her prospects will depend on her fitness, performances and ability to meet the standards required for national selection.
The experienced pacer last represented Bangladesh in December 2024, when the team faced Ireland. She has remained outside the national side since then but has not announced her retirement from international cricket. Her latest approach to the BCB suggests that she remains interested in continuing her playing career.
During her time in Australia, Jahanara raised allegations of sexual harassment against several officials in the BCB’s women’s department. She also accused national team captain Nigar Sultana of encouraging factionalism within the squad. Jahanara subsequently submitted a 13-page letter to the board outlining her concerns.
The allegations brought attention to tensions surrounding Bangladesh women’s cricket. However, Jahanara has continued to leave open the possibility of returning to the game. Her latest expression of interest places the focus on whether she can regain competitive form and earn the confidence of the national selectors.
Rafiqul Islam has said that the BCB is willing to consider any cricketer capable of contributing to the country, while emphasising that selection will depend on merit and physical fitness.
‘The door is open for all cricketers in the interests of the country. However, to earn a place in the national team, players must pass the tests of merit and fitness,’ he said.
His remarks indicate that Jahanara’s return has not been ruled out, although they do not amount to a promise of selection. After an extended absence from international cricket, she would need to demonstrate that she remains physically prepared and capable of performing at the highest level.
A return to domestic cricket could provide an important route back into competitive action. Regular matches would allow Jahanara to assess her bowling form, build match fitness and demonstrate her current ability to the selectors. Her experience of playing and training in Australia may help her preparation, but her performances on the field will ultimately carry significant weight.
Jahanara made her international debut in 2011 and has since built an extensive record in Bangladesh colours. She has played 52 One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and 83 Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is) for the country. She has also captained Bangladesh in seven T20Is and two ODIs, giving her experience of leadership alongside her international playing career.
Her experience could be an asset if she manages to return to the national set-up. Nevertheless, past achievements alone will not secure a place in the squad. Her current fitness, recent performances and the team’s requirements will all be important considerations in any selection decision.
For Jahanara, the immediate priority will be to establish a pathway back into domestic cricket and show that she can compete consistently. Strong performances could strengthen her case for international selection, although the final decision will rest with the rel
