Nahida Akter Steps into Leadership Role as Bangladesh Finalise Squad for Emerging Nations Trophy

Bangladesh's women's cricket team have locked in their 15-member squad for the ICC Women's Emerging Nations Trophy, which begins in the United Arab Emirates on 12 November. The announcement signals the start of a new chapter under captain Nahida Akter, who was named successor to long-serving skipper Nigar Sultana Joty only last month. For Nahida, the tournament represents her first major opportunity to lead the side in a multi-nation event and establish her preferred style of play and leadership.

The squad retains a strong core of experienced players while introducing a few adjustments. Sobhana Mostary has been appointed vice-captain, providing Nahida with an experienced ally in the middle order. Joty herself remains part of the group and is expected to contribute significantly with the bat, even though she has stepped away from the captaincy. Her continued presence offers continuity at a time of transition.

One of the more notable absences is pacer Marufa Akter. The right-arm quick continues to manage a recurring ankle and foot issue that also forced her to miss the final match of Bangladesh's recent series in Australia. In her place, Disha Biswas has earned a recall after sitting out the Asian Games earlier this year. The selection also brings back opener Sathi Rani and all-rounder Jannatul Ferdus Sumona, both of whom have shown form in domestic cricket. Among those who missed out are batter Sharmin Sultana and off-spinner Sultana Khatun.

Bangladesh have been drawn in Group B alongside Pakistan, Thailand, the Netherlands and Zimbabwe. Their opening fixture is against Pakistan on 12 November at the Karwan Cricket Ground in Ajman. The group is competitive, and results against the stronger sides will go a long way in shaping the team's confidence under the new captain. The tournament is being played in the 50-over format, giving the side valuable preparation time in a format that remains important for future ICC events.

The selection committee appears to have prioritised a balanced attack and depth in batting. With Nahida herself a capable left-arm spinner, the team has multiple options with the ball, while the batting line-up includes several players who have already represented Bangladesh at senior level. The inclusion of younger and returning players also suggests a willingness to test options ahead of busier international schedules.

For Nahida, the challenge is twofold: managing the expectations that come with a new leadership role while ensuring the team performs consistently across the group stage. Early matches against Pakistan and other competitive sides will provide a clear indication of how quickly the side adapts to her methods. Joty's experience in the dressing room is likely to prove useful during this period of change.

Overall, the squad announcement reflects a measured transition rather than a complete overhaul. Bangladesh enter the Emerging Nations Trophy with a clear leader, a familiar group of players, and an opportunity to build momentum in a relatively short tournament. How the team responds under Nahida Akter's captaincy will be one of the key storylines to follow once the competition begins in the UAE.

Full squad: Nahida Akter (captain), Sobhana Mostary (vice-captain), Dilara Akter, Sharmin Akter Supta, Shorna Akter, Disha Biswas, Juairiya Ferdous, Jannatul Ferdus Sumona, Rabeya Khan, Fahima Khatun, Shanjida Akther Maghla, Ritu Moni, Sathi Rani, Nigar Sultana Joty, Fariha Islam Trisna.