Sharmin Sultana Returns as Bangladesh Name Combined Squad for Asia Cup and Asian Games

Bangladesh have turned to experience as they prepare for two major tournaments in quick succession, recalling top-order batter Sharmin Sultana for the Women’s Asia Cup in Dubai and the 20th Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board announced the 15-member squad on Monday, with Sharmin replacing Taj Nehar, who featured in the last World Cup but failed to make an impression. Sharmin last played for the national side against Sri Lanka in May 2026.

“We tried Taj but she failed, which prompted us to bring Sharmin,” BCB women’s wing chief selector Sazzad Ahmed told IGK “Our other opener Dola [Dilara Akhter] is not among runs and that is the reason we are keeping another opener in the squad.”

Sharmin’s recall adds depth to the top order, addressing concerns over opening partnerships that have troubled Bangladesh in recent outings. Dilara Akhter, retained in the squad despite a lean run, will have competition for the opener’s slot alongside Sharmin.

Leadership and Core Retained

Nigar Sultana Joty will continue as captain, with Nahida Akter serving as her deputy. The squad retains its core, with the experienced Ritu Moni, Fahima Khatun and Rabeya Khan providing balance in the all-round department. The pace attack will be led by Marufa Akter, while Sultana Khatun and Fariha Islam Trisna add further bowling options.

The Women’s Asia Cup gets underway at the Dubai International Stadium on August 28, with Bangladesh placed in Group B alongside Indonesia, Sri Lanka and the UAE. Their campaign begins against Indonesia on August 31, followed by fixtures against Sri Lanka on September 6 and the UAE on September 8. The final is scheduled for September 13.

Following the Asia Cup, Bangladesh will shift focus to Japan for the Asian Games cricket event. They face China in the first quarter-final at Korogi Athletic Park on September 17. A victory would set up a semi-final clash against either India or Japan. The gold-medal and bronze-medal matches are both scheduled for September 22.

                                               

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