Bangladesh on Saturday unveiled its 15-member squad for the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025, naming three new faces as the team looks to build on months of preparation and make a strong impression in their second appearance on the global stage.

Wicketkeeper-batter Rubya Haider Jhelik, off-spinner Nishita Akter Nishi, and top-order batter Sumaiya Akter have been drafted into the squad, replacing Dilara Akter Dola, Jannatul Ferdous Sumona and Ishma Tanjim.

Rubya, uncapped in ODIs but experienced in T20Is, secures her first World Cup selection after a consistent run of form.

Women’s World Cup: Bangladesh ramping up preparations

Nishita, at 17, is the youngest in the side, having debuted against Pakistan two years ago.

Sumaiya, a former Under-19 captain, returns to the fold following a prolific domestic season and strong performances for the Emerging Team earlier this year.

Chief selector Sazzad Ahmed Mansur said the trio had done enough to merit a place.

“Rubya has earned her call through hard work. Nishita bowls with maturity well beyond her years, and Sumaiya gives us a top-order option who can both hold the innings and push on when required,” he said.

The announcement comes as Bangladesh step up their final phase of preparation.

Players in contention have been competing in the Challenge Cup in Savar before heading to Sylhet next month for a nine-day camp that will include day-night practice matches — a key step since all of Bangladesh’s group games at the World Cup will be played under lights.

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Skipper Nigar Sultana Joty and vice-captain Nahida Akter will once again lead the squad, supported by senior campaigners Fargana Hoque, Ritu Moni and Fahima Khatun.

Bangladesh, who made their World Cup debut in New Zealand in 2022 and finished seventh, will open this year’s campaign against Pakistan in Colombo on October 2.

They face England, New Zealand, South Africa, Australia, Sri Lanka and hosts India in the group stage, with warm-up matches against South Africa and Sri Lanka scheduled in Colombo before the main tournament begins.

The Women’s World Cup runs from September 30 to November 2 across venues in India and Sri Lanka.

Squad: Nigar Sultana Joty (c), Nahida Akter (vc), Fargana Hoque, Rubya Haider Jhelik, Sharmin Akter Supta, Sobhana Mostary, Ritu Moni, Shorna Akter, Fahima Khatun, Rabeya Khan, Marufa Akter, Fariha Islam Trisna, Shanjida Akther Maghla, Nishita Akter Nishi, Sumaiya Akter.