Bangladesh was one of the two teams that booked their spots for the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup through the qualifying rounds, in the ICC Women’s World Cup Qualifiers, by finishing second on the points table with three wins out of five matches. They made their maiden appearance in the ODI World Cup in the 2022 edition, where they though just managed a single victory but ensured that it was a historic one against Pakistan. Now, with momentum on their side, the Tigresses will be eager to unsettle and cause more upsets in what a crucial tournament for their cricketing landscape will be. They will play their first match against Pakistan on October 2 at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.
SWOT Analysis
Strengths
One of Bangladesh’s biggest advantages heading into the World Cup is the form of their experienced batting pillars, Sharmin Akter and captain Nigar Sultana Joty. Both the batters were exceptional in the Qualifiers played in Pakistan, finishing just behind Scotland’s Kathryn Bryce in the list of top-run scorers. Sharmin amassed 266 runs at a staggering average of 66.50, while Joty scored 241 runs at an average of 60.25.
Another key strength for Bangladesh, especially in familiar subcontinental conditions, is their spin department. Fahima Khatun, Rabeya Khan, and Nahida Akter were at the forefront of the team’s successful Qualifier campaign. Fahima led the charge with 8 wickets in 5 games, maintaining a steady economy of 4.75. Rabeya and Nahida chipped in with 6 wickets apiece, proving equally effective with miserly economy rates of 3.72 and 4.23 respectively.
Adding further depth is left-arm orthodox bowler Shanjida Akther Maghla. Though she has just a single ODI to her name, the 24-year-old has already shown her effectiveness in T20Is, where she has picked up 18 wickets in 20 outings. This spin-heavy arsenal could be Bangladesh’s trump card on turning tracks.
Weakness
A notable setback for Bangladesh is the absence of Jannatul Ferdus from their World Cup squad. The 25-year-old off-spinner, who made a strong ODI return during the Qualifiers and emerged as the team’s highest wicket-taker, would have added depth to their bowling resources. Her omission comes as a surprise, leaving a gap in Bangladesh’s spin arsenal.
The squad also misses out on batter Ishma Tanjim, whose inconsistent returns of 8, 2, and 14 in the Qualifiers cost her a place, while Dilara Akter, who had featured in both the West Indies series and the Qualifiers earlier this year, has also been left out. These exclusions point to a lack of settled options beyond the frontline performers, which could expose Bangladesh if injuries or loss of form strike during the tournament.
Opportunities
Bangladesh’s squad reflects a clear investment in the future, with youngsters like Nishita Akter Nishi and Sumaiya Akter handed the chance to shine on the biggest stage. Both were part of the U19 Women’s World Cup earlier this year, where Akter neither just captained the side but also etched history by being the highest-run scorer for her country. She was handed her ODI cap against Australia in March 2024. Joining her in making a global debut is 28-year-old Rubya Haider Jhelik. She has played 6 T20Is and now will probably play her first game in the 50-over format on the world stage.
Threats
A major concern for Bangladesh is their lack of recent match practice, with limited international cricket leading up to the tournament. The team last featured in the World Cup Qualifiers and now will straightaway bout against the best in the world in their second World Cup appearance. The side will be tested for their big-match temperament and consistency.
Bangladesh’s Squad for Women’s World Cup 2025:
Nigar Sultana Joty (C), Nahida Akter, Farzana Haque, Rubya Haider Jhelik, Sharmin Akter Supta, Sobhana Mostary, Ritu Moni, Shorna Akter, Fahima Khatun, Rabeya Khan, Marufa Akter, Fariha Islam Trisna, Shanjida Akther Maghla, Nishita Akter Nishi, Sumaiya Akter
Bangladesh’s Fixtures for Women’s World Cup 2025:
2 October 2025: vs Pakistan – R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo
7 October 2025: vs England – Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati
10 October 2025: vs New Zealand – ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium, Visakhapatnam
13 October 2025: vs South Africa – ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium, Visakhapatnam
20 October 2025: vs Sri Lanka – R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo
26 October 2025: vs India – Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy, Navi Mumbai
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