The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has named a 15-player squad for an upcoming three-match ODI series against Sri Lanka, with the spotlight on a first-time selection for 20-year-old wicketkeeper-batter Juairiya Ferdous. The group also features the return of right-handed batter Sarmin Sultana to the ODI set after a seven-year absence, strengthening a batting lineup led by Nigar Sultana Joty.
Quick facts
- Bangladesh have announced a 15-member ODI squad for a three-match series versus Sri Lanka.
- Juairiya Ferdous earns her maiden ODI call-up at age 20 as a wicketkeeper-batter.
- Sarmin Sultana is recalled to the ODI team after seven years.
- Juairiya has already played seven T20Is for Bangladesh and is the only uncapped player in the ODI squad.
- Sri Lanka arrive in Bangladesh on Friday, April 17, and go straight to Rajshahi.
- Bangladesh and Sri Lanka will have two days of practice before the ODIs begin.
- The ODI matches are on April 20, 22 and 25 at Rajshahi Divisional Stadium, starting at 9:30 AM.
- After the ODIs, the tour shifts to Sylhet for three T20Is starting April 26 at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium.
- Sri Lanka are scheduled to depart on May 3.
Juairiya’s inclusion is expected to bring fresh energy to the middle order ahead of a packed stretch for Bangladesh. Having already featured in seven T20 internationals, she is viewed as a ready option for higher-pressure ODI moments, even while being the only player in the squad without prior ODI experience.
The return of Sarmin Sultana adds a different dimension, bringing seasoned batting experience back into the ODI mix. Bangladesh’s batting plans are anchored around the leadership of Nigar Sultana Joty, with the selection of both Juairiya and Sarmin pointing to a blend of youth and experience in the top and middle phases.
Selector’s note
Speaking about the two additions, women’s chief selector Sazzad Ahmed said he believes Juairiya and Sharmin will strengthen the batting unit. He added that both can slot into different roles and are naturally aggressive, qualities the team will want across varying match situations.
On the tour schedule, Sri Lanka are set to land in Bangladesh on Friday, April 17, and will move straight to Rajshahi, where the ODI stage of the trip will be hosted. The teams will complete two days of practice together before the first match, ensuring both sides are prepared for local conditions at the Rajshahi Divisional Stadium.
The three ODIs are scheduled for April 20, April 22 and April 25, with all games beginning at 9:30 AM. Following the ODI series, the tour heads to Sylhet on April 26 for a three-match T20I engagement at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium, before Sri Lanka conclude the tour and leave Bangladesh on May 3.
Bangladesh ODI squad: Nigar Sultana Joty (Captain), Nahida Akter (Vice-Captain), Farzana Haque, Sobhana Mostary, Fahima Khatun, Sharmin Akter Supta, Ritu Moni, Shorna Akter, Rabeya Khan, Sarmin Sultana, Marufa Akter, Fariha Islam Trisna, Sultana Khatun, Shanjida Akther Maghla, Juairiya Ferdous.
