Bangladesh have recalled experienced top-order batter Sharmin Sultana for the upcoming Women’s Asia Cup 2026 and Asian Games in Japan, with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) announcing a 15-member squad on Monday. The same group of players will represent the country in both tournaments as Bangladesh prepare for a busy month of international cricket.
Sharmin Sultana makes her comeback
Sharmin’s return is the biggest talking point from Bangladesh’s squad announcement. The top-order batter last represented the national team against Sri Lanka in May 2026 and has now been brought back into the setup ahead of two important assignments. Her inclusion comes at the expense of Taj Nehar, who was part of Bangladesh’s squad at the last World Cup. Sharmin’s experience at the top of the order could provide Bangladesh with greater stability as they look to make a strong impression in the Asia Cup.
Nigar Sultana Joty will continue to lead the side, while Nahida Akter has been named vice-captain. The squad also includes several familiar faces, including Dilara Akter, Sobhana Mostary, Shorna Akter and Ritu Moni.
Bangladesh face Sri Lanka in Group B
The Women’s Asia Cup will begin at the Dubai International Stadium on August 28, with Bangladesh placed in Group B alongside Indonesia, Sri Lanka and the UAE. Bangladesh will open their campaign against Indonesia on August 31. They will then take on Sri Lanka on September 6 before completing the group stage against the UAE two days later on September 8.
With the final scheduled for September 13, Bangladesh will have little time to regroup between the two tournaments. The team will therefore hope to build momentum early in Dubai and carry it into the Asian Games. The Asia Cup will also provide valuable competitive exposure for a squad that combines established players with younger talents looking to make their mark on the international stage.
Asian Games challenge awaits in Japan
Once the Asia Cup concludes, Bangladesh will shift their attention to the Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. Bangladesh have been drawn to face China in the first quarter-final at Korogi Athletic Park on September 17. A victory would send them into the semi-finals, where they could meet either India or hosts Japan. The medal matches are scheduled for September 22. The two semi-final winners will battle for the gold medal, while the losing teams will compete for bronze.
Bangladesh women’s squad for Asia Cup and Asian Games: Nigar Sultana Joty (c), Nahida Akter (vc), Dilara Akter, Juairiya Ferdous, Sharmin Akter Supta, Sharmin Sultana, Sobhana Mostary, Shorna Akter, Ritu Moni, Fahima Khatun, Rabeya Khan, Marufa Akter, Sultana Khatun, Shanjida Akther Maghla, Fariha Islam Trisna
This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.
