The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has revealed the squad for the much-anticipated second edition of the ICC Women’s U19 T20 World Cup, set to be held in Malaysia from January 18 to February 2, 2025.
Promising Asia Cup Campaign
Bangladesh recently showcased their potential in the inaugural ACC Women’s U19 Asia Cup 2024. Although they fell short in the final, losing to India by 41 runs, the team left a mark with spirited performances. India, led by Niki Prasad, managed a modest total of 117 for seven after being asked to bat first. While most Indian batters struggled, G Trisha (52 off 37) stood out with a notable contribution. For Bangladesh, Farjana Easmin delivered a stellar performance, claiming four wickets for 31 runs in her four overs. Nishita Akter Nishi (2 for 23) also played a pivotal role, taking two crucial wickets to restrict India’s scoring opportunities.
The Bangladeshi team’s campaign was powered by several standout players. Fahomida Choya emerged as the team’s leading batter, scoring 80 runs in four matches, while Sadia Akter followed with 69 runs. Nishita Akter Nishi was instrumental with the ball, finishing as the second-highest wicket-taker in the tournament with nine wickets, including a spectacular five-for against Malaysia. Farjana Easmin provided strong support, picking up seven wickets across five games.
Building Momentum in the Tri-Nation Series
Earlier this year, Bangladesh’s U19 Women’s team demonstrated their mettle in a tri-nation series featuring Pakistan and Sri Lanka. The team dominated the group stages, winning all four matches before narrowly losing to Sri Lanka in the final by 36 runs.
Key players rose to the occasion during the series. Captain Sumaiya Akter accumulated 95 runs to finish among the top five run-scorers, while vice-captain Afia Ashima Era impressed with her consistency, scoring 85 runs at a formidable average of 42.50. Mst Eva also contributed with 57 crucial runs. On the bowling front, Nishita Akter Nishi continued her excellent form, finishing as the third-highest wicket-taker with five dismissals.
Road to Glory in the U19 T20 World Cup
The ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2025 will feature 16 teams divided into four groups. Bangladesh finds itself in Group D alongside Australia, Nepal, and Scotland. Each team will play the others in its group once, with the top three teams advancing to the Super Six League stage. Points earned in the group stage against fellow qualifiers will be carried forward to the Super Six. From there, the top two teams in each league will move on to the semi-finals, culminating in the grand finale on February 2, 2025.
Squad Dynamics: Talent Meets Opportunity
The squad for the U19 T20 World Cup reflects a mix of emerging talent and proven performers. Captain Sumaiya Akter and vice-captain Afia Ashima Era bring leadership and consistency, while players like Nishita Akter Nishi and Farjana Easmin are set to lead the bowling attack. The inclusion of Lucky Khatun and Sadia Islam, who were not part of the Asia Cup squad, adds depth and dynamism to the team.
Notably, Arvin Tani and Maharun Nesa, who were part of the Asia Cup roster, are absent from the World Cup squad, but the new additions are expected to bring balance and versatility.
Bangladesh U19 Women’s T20 World Cup Squad:
Sumaiya Akter (C), Afia Ashima Era (VC), Mst Eva, Fahomida Choya, Habiba Islam Pinky, Juairiya Ferdous, Fariya Akter, Farjana Easmin, Anisa Akter Soba, Sumaiya Akther Suborna, Nishita Akter Nishi, Lucky Khatun, Jannatul Maoua, Sadia Akter, Sadia Islam
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