Sharmin Akhter Returns as Bangladesh Announce Squad for Ireland ODI Series
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| Taj Nehar and Sanjida Akter among the 15-member squad, in line for their first ODI caps. / Getty |
Bangladesh has announced their 15-player squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Ireland, set to take place in Mirpur later this month. The squad features the return of experienced opener Sharmin Akhter, who last played for Bangladesh against India in July 2023.
Sharmin, a seasoned campaigner with over 50 international appearances, was Bangladesh’s second-highest run-scorer during the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2022 in New Zealand, amassing 147 runs in six matches. Her inclusion bolsters the team’s batting lineup as they prepare to face Ireland.
Joining Sharmin in making a return is experienced pacer Jahanara Alam, adding depth to the bowling attack. Meanwhile, emerging players Taj Nehar and Sanjida Akter have been named in the squad and are in line for potential ODI debuts.
Squad Continuity and New Faces
The squad retains the core group from Bangladesh’s ICC Women's T20 World Cup campaign earlier this year, where the team registered a historic win against Scotland. However, some notable players, including Farzana Akter, Sumaiya Akter, Disha Biswas, and Nishita Akter, miss out from the squad that played against Australia in Bangladesh’s previous ODI series.
The squad will once again be led by Nigar Sultana, who continues to serve as captain.
Series Schedule
All three matches will be played at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur. The matches are scheduled for:
- November 27
- November 30
- December 2
Full Squad
Nigar Sultana (c), Nahida Akter, 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.