United News of Bangladesh

A recent statement by the state minister for sports and youth affairs, Aminul Haque, regarding Zaima Rahman’s early involvement in football, has drawn widespread public attention, prompting further clarification and renewed discussion about youth sports development. The former goalkeeper of the national football team claimed that Zaima Rahman, who is the only daughter of current Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, once had the opportunity to play for the Chelsea Football Club in the United Kingdom. According to the state minister, she was a very talented athlete, and described her as a promising goalkeeper during her early years, noting her height and athletic aptitude for the position. The comments generated considerable discussion online, with many questioning the claim in the context of Bangladesh’s limited historical representation in top-tier English football. But as the debate online continued, a voice from the past came forward to provide the context. A former coach, Mohammad Hakim, who trained Zaima during her time at the International School Dhaka (ISD), shared recollections and archival photographs of her participation in school-level football.

Bangladesh needed to score 41 runs in seven overs after a long delay due to rain. Still, the hosts failed to do that, and Sri Lanka registered an incredible win in the ongoing Women’s Asia Cup in Sylhet today. Sri Lanka batted first and they were at 83 for five when the rain started. Bangladesh’s new target 41 was set by the DL Method. Bangladesh started well despite losing quick wickets. Murshida Khatun scored only one while her opening partner scored 5. Read: ‘We need to improve’, Shakib says after another batting disaster Bangladesh captain Nigar Sultana was hanging on in the middle but she couldn't avoid a defeat. In the last two overs, Bangladesh needed 12 runs. In the sixth over, Inoka Ranaweera scalped three wickets and a run-out was there too. Suddenly, Bangladesh’s target stood at 11 in the last over which was never achieved as the hosts tumbled to 37 for seven in seven overs. Bangladesh lost the match by three runs. It was Bangladesh’s third defeat in five matches so far. They will take on the UAE in their last match in the first phase. India have confirmed a place in the semifinals with five wins in six matches in the first phase while Pakistan and Sri Lanka have also booked a place each in the semifinals. If Bangladesh can beat the UAE in their last match, they will also qualify for the semis.