Bangladesh’s remarkable unbeaten campaign at the recently concluded ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier in Nepal has begun to pay dividends beyond qualification, with several players making significant gains in the latest ICC Women’s T20I rankings.
Winning all seven of their matches, Bangladesh not only secured a place at the 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup but also showcased a level of consistency and depth that is now reflected in their individual rankings. The team’s collective dominance was built on contributions across departments, underlining their growing stature in women’s cricket.
Captain Nigar Sultana Joty once again led by example. Her 154 runs during the tournament, often scored under pressure, lifted her three places to 19th in the T20I batters’ rankings. Calm at the crease and sharp in decision-making, Joty played the anchor role to perfection, allowing others around her to attack freely.
Opener Dilara Akter enjoyed one of the big jumps among Bangladeshi batters, climbing five spots to 65th. Her aggressive intent at the top regularly put opponents on the back foot, while Sobhana Mostary delivered a tournament to remember. Finishing as the leading run scorer from Bangladesh and 2nd highest run scorer in the tournament with 262 runs, Mostary surged 16 places to 36th, her powerful middle order batting including match winning knocks that set the tone for Bangladesh’s fearless approach.
The bowlers matched the batters’ stride for stride. Left-arm spinner Nahida Akter was outstanding in Nepal’s spin friendly conditions, taking eight wickets and rising eight places to 28th in the bowlers’ rankings. Her ability to vary pace and extract turn consistently choked opposition scoring and highlighted Bangladesh’s strength in spin bowling.
While Bangladesh were the standout performers, the qualifier also produced notable gains for other teams. Ireland’s seamers impressed, with Arlene Kelly climbing seven places to 36th and Orla Prendergast jumping 10 spots to 45th after delivering disciplined spells throughout the tournament.
Scotland’s qualification was driven by a breakout performance from 20-year-old all-rounder Katherine Fraser. She scored 184 runs and claimed eight wickets, earning a rise of seven places to 37th among bowlers and moving up to joint 22nd in the all-rounders’ rankings, an achievement that signals a bright future.
Bangladesh’s ranking surge reflects more than just one successful event. Under Joty’s leadership, the side has evolved into a balanced and confident unit, blending experienced campaigners with emerging talent. Their adaptability in challenging Nepalese conditions, including close win against Ireland by just 9 runs or dominations like 90 runs victory against Scotland, highlighted growing tactical maturity.
With the 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup now firmly in sight, Bangladesh entered the global stage with renewed belief. While the traditional powerhouses remain formidable, this qualifier has shown that Bangladesh are no longer outsiders but a team ready to compete, disrupt, and dream bigger than ever.
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