The Bangladesh women’s cricket team is gearing up for an exciting three-match ODI series against Ireland, set to commence on November 27 at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur.
This highly anticipated series, part of the ICC Future Tour Programme, marks Bangladesh’s return to the 50-over format since their last ODI outing against Australia in April this year.
The selectors have opted for a balanced mix of seasoned campaigners and fresh talent in their squad. Sharmin Akhter and Jahanara Alam make their much-anticipated return to the ODI setup after missing out on the series against Australia.
Sharmin, a dependable top-order batter with 35 ODIs under her belt, last represented Bangladesh during the home series against India in July 2023. Meanwhile, Jahanara, a veteran of 52 ODIs, brings her wealth of experience as one of only three Bangladeshi players to have featured in over 50 ODIs.
Adding to the excitement, the squad includes two fresh faces in Taj Nehar and Sanjida Akter. Taj, a middle-order batter who debuted in the T20 World Cup in October, and Sanjida, a left-arm spinner with 18 T20I appearances, have earned their maiden ODI call-ups.
They have also showcased versatility in their squad selection for the ODI format, featuring experienced campaigners like Fargana Hoque, Sharmin Akhter, and Sanjida Akter, who were absent from the previous T20 World Cup squad. On the other hand, players like Dilara Akter, Shathi Rani, and Disha Biswas missed out.
The squad for this series also sees some significant changes compared to the one that faced Australia earlier this year. Players like Farzana Akter, Sumaiya Akter, Disha Biswas, and Nishita Akter have been left out, making way for the returning veterans and newcomers.
Bangladesh enjoys a favorable record against Ireland, having won three out of their six ODI encounters and lost only 1. The last bilateral series between the two sides in 2016 ended in Bangladesh’s favor, and the team will aim to replicate that success this time around.
Following the ODI series in Mirpur, the teams will shift gears for a three-match T20I series in Sylhet, scheduled for December 5, 7, and 9. This series will be crucial for Bangladesh as they continue to fine-tune their squad and strategies ahead of future international assignments.
Bangladesh Women’s ODI Squad for Ireland Series 2024:
Nigar Sultana (C), Nahida Akter (VC), Murshida Khatun, Fargana Hoque, Sharmin Akhter, Sobhana Mostary, Shorna Akter, Ritu Moni, Rabeya Khan, Fahima Khatun, Marufa Akter, Jahanara Alam, Sultana Khatun, Taj Nehar, Sanjida Akter
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