In the cool mountain surroundings of Nepal, Bangladesh Women’s cricket team is quietly but confidently scripting a story of revival. Their unbeaten run at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Global Qualifier has not only strengthened their push for a coveted spot at the 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup in England and Wales but has also been reflected in the latest ICC Women’s T20I player rankings.
After four commanding performances, Bangladesh sits firmly among the frontrunners of the tournament. Central to this success has been the form of their top-order batters, led by Sharmin Akhter. The right-hander has been in sublime touch, accumulating 156 runs from four innings. Her campaign includes half centuries against both the United States and Ireland, innings that showcased her maturity and ability to absorb pressure. As a reward, Sharmin has jumped an impressive 22 places to equal 35th in the ICC T20I batting rankings, underlining her impact at the top of the order.
Sobhana Mostary (123 runs in 4 innings) has complemented Sharmin well, providing stability and momentum through the middle overs. Her consistent contributions have helped Bangladesh post competitive totals. Mostary’s efforts have earned her an 11-place rise, taking her to equal 52nd in the batting rankings. Together, the duo has formed the backbone of a batting unit that has looked increasingly confident with every outing.
Bangladesh’s bowlers have been equally influential. Spinner Rabeya Khan has once again proven why she is one of the team’s most reliable weapons. Her seven wickets so far, extracted through clever variations and disciplined lines, have seen her climb to 14th in the ICC T20I bowling rankings. Fahima Khatun has also enjoyed a productive tournament, moving up six spots to 30th after delivering economical spells that tightened the screws on opposition batters, especially during pressure situations.
The rankings update also highlighted strong performances from players of other competing nations. Ireland captain Gaby Lewis, the leading run-scorer in the tournament with 190 runs in 4 innings, edged up to equal 15th in the batting rankings, while Netherlands batter Sterre Kalis rose six places to equal 48th. Scotland’s teenage all-rounder Katherine Fraser emerged as one of the tournament’s breakout stars, with 126 runs and 5 wickets from 4 matches, surging 17 places to equal 44th among bowlers and an extraordinary 39 spots to reach 25th in the all-rounders’ list.
As the qualifier moves into its decisive phase, Bangladesh’s rise in the rankings reflects a team growing in confidence and cohesion. While tougher challenges lie ahead, their performances so far suggest momentum is firmly on their side. For Bangladesh, every run and wicket brings them one step closer to a World Cup and right now, the signs are promising.
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