Murshida Khatun has been removed from the Bangladesh squad for the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup Qualifier in Lahore, with Ishma Tanjim being called up. Jannatul Sumona and Ritu Moni return to the squad. Bangladesh aims to secure qualification after missing direct entry previously.
The Bangladesh Cricket Board has announced the final squad for the forthcoming ICC Women’s ODI World Cup Qualifier, scheduled to take place from April 5 to 19 in Lahore, Pakistan. Opener Murshida Khatun has been excluded from the squad, having struggled with her form during the Dhaka Premier Division Women’s Cricket League, where she managed only 110 runs across eight innings.
In her absence, uncapped batter Ishma Tanjim has been selected, while off-spinner Jannatul Sumona and all-rounder Ritu Moni make their return to the team. Ishma has performed impressively, amassing 336 runs with an average of 48 in the WDPL. Meanwhile, Sumona has claimed the title of the highest wicket-taker in the league with 21 dismissals at an average of 14.33, and Ritu has achieved 18 wickets, ranking as the joint second-highest.
Bangladesh narrowly missed direct qualification for the World Cup after losing a close ODI series 2-1 against the West Indies in January. Now, they must compete for two qualifying spots against teams including the West Indies, Ireland, Scotland, and Thailand along with hosts Pakistan. Bangladesh is set to face Thailand on April 10, followed by matches against Ireland, Scotland, the West Indies, and Pakistan.
The players will depart for Lahore on April 3, where they will engage in two warm-up matches in preparation for the tournament. The chosen squad comprises Nigar Sultana Joty (Captain), Nahida Akter (Vice Captain), Ishma Tanjim, Dilara Akter, Sharmin Akter Supta, Sobhana Mostary, Shorna Akter, Jannatul Ferdus Sumona, Rabeya, Fahima Khatun, Fariha Islam Trisna, Farzana Haque, Shanjida Akther Maghla, Marufa Akter, and Ritu Moni.
In summary, the Bangladesh women’s cricket team has made significant changes ahead of the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup Qualifier, with the exclusion of Murshida Khatun and the introduction of new talent. The team faces a challenging path to qualification, requiring solid performances to secure a place in the World Cup tournament in India.
Original Source: www.newagebd.net
