By Maksuda Lisa (Dhaka Bureau)
The Bangladesh women’s cricket team is dreaming of a new dawn ahead of the upcoming Women’s T20 World Cup, set to take place on English soil. Leaving past failures behind, Tigresses captain Nigar Sultana Joty has expressed her firm determination to rewrite history on the global stage. Bolstered by solid team preparation and high confidence, her squad is ready to take on any challenge.
Although Bangladesh has been a regular participant in this shortest format of the World Cup since 2014, its success has been limited. Across six editions, the Tigresses have managed only 3 wins out of 25 matches. However, the captain refuses to view this statistic as a psychological burden or pressure on the current squad.
In an interview, Joty stated, ‘Rather than dwelling on the past, the confidence and preparation of the current team are what matter most. I don’t see this long winless streak as a burden; instead, I view it as a golden opportunity to create a new history.’
Tri-Series in Scotland: The Ideal Preparation
To adapt to the local conditions before the main tournament kicks off, Bangladesh will play a tri-nation series in Scotland alongside the Netherlands. The Tigresses will get the opportunity to play four matches in this series, which begins on May 28.
Highlighting that there is no lack of preparation this time compared to the past, Joty said, ‘Previously, we had fewer opportunities for international series or sufficient warm-up matches ahead of the World Cup. This time, after the Sri Lanka series, we are getting 4 matches in Scotland, and 2 official ICC practice matches. Therefore, there is no room for excuses regarding our preparation.’
Strengths and Strategy of Bangladesh
* Rise of Match-Winners: The captain expressed satisfaction with the team’s batting performance in the qualifiers. In her view, several genuine ‘match-winners’ have emerged in the squad.
* Balanced Approach: Aggressive batting in the powerplay, accountability in the middle order, and the consistency of the bowling unit have significantly boosted the team’s confidence.
* Fearless Cricket: Bangladesh is eager to face any opponent with a positive mindset in English conditions.
Goals and Equations: Focused on Pakistan and the Netherlands
In this edition of the World Cup, Bangladesh is placed in a challenging group alongside heavyweights Australia, India, South Africa, Pakistan, and the Netherlands. The captain’s strategy regarding the group stage dynamics is quite clear. Based on current form and strengths, she has set a specific target for victories against Pakistan and the Netherlands.
Furthermore, Joty remains optimistic about achieving positive results against India and South Africa as well, drawing confidence from Bangladesh’s past victories over these two cricketing powerhouses. The Tigresses plan to approach the tournament using a ‘match-by-match’ strategy.
Family Bond and the Allure of the Global Stage
Having played together for a long period, a strong family-like bond has developed among the players of the Bangladesh team. The captain believes this off-field chemistry will positively impact their on-field performance. Joty even mentioned making special plans to keep her teammates high-spirited during festivals like Eid when staying abroad.
On a personal note, Joty considers this World Cup a massive opportunity for herself. At the same time, she reminded everyone that the World Cup is the biggest advertisement in global cricket. Performing well here will not only bring the Bangladesh team into the spotlight of the international arena but will also open major doors for players to participate in franchise leagues worldwide.
Bangladesh will kick off its World Cup campaign against the Netherlands on June 14 in Birmingham. Following that, the Tigresses will face Australia, Pakistan, India, and South Africa in their remaining group-stage matches.
Bangladesh World Cup Squad at a Glance:
Nigar Sultana Joty (Captain), Nahida Akter (Vice-Captain), Sharmin Akter Supta, Sobhana Mostary, Shorna Akter, Ritu Moni, Rabeya Khan, Fahima Khatun, Fariha Islam Trisna, Marufa Akter, Sanjida Akter Meghla, Sultana Khatun, Dilara Akter, Shathi Rani, and Taj Nehar.
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The Writer:
Maksuda Lisa: Senior journalist and Contributor, Pressenza- Dhaka Bureau.
