Bangladesh women’s team have named their squad for the upcoming three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka women’s team, with uncapped top-order batter Sarmin Sultana earning a spot in the 15-member list. She replaces Fargana Hoque in the setup. 

The squad announcement comes right after the conclusion of the ODI series in Rajshahi, where Sri Lanka clinched a 2-1 victory. Bangladesh will now be eager to bounce back in the shortest format, especially after a below-par batting display in the 50-over leg.

Sarmin, who recently made a return to the ODI side after a long gap of seven years, managed just 42 runs across three innings in the series. While she is yet to make her T20I debut, the selectors have shown faith in her potential by including her in the squad for the shortest format.

Bangladesh’s batting unit will once again rely heavily on skipper Nigar Sultana, along with Sobhana Mostary and Sharmin Akter, all of whom contributed with useful runs in the ODI series. Meanwhile, Hoque, who has been left out, managed just 11 runs in her only outing during the third ODI.

On the bowling front, Bangladesh appear relatively settled. Marufa Akteris expected to lead the pace attack with the new ball, while left-arm seamer Fariha Trisna could play a crucial role, especially on the more responsive pitches in Sylhet.

The spin department will be spearheaded by vice-captain Nahida Akter, with support from Rabeya Khan, Sultana Khatun, and Fahima Khatun. The spin unit will be keen to improve after struggling to build pressure consistently in the ODI series.

This series is expected to be Bangladesh’s final assignment before they head to England for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in June. The team had an impressive run in the qualifiers earlier this year in Nepal, winning all seven matches to secure their spot in the marquee event.

Nigar Sultana (c), Nahida Akter (vc), Dilara Akter, Sobhana Mostary, Fahima Khatun, Sharmin Akter, Ritu Moni, Shorna Akter, Rabeya Khan, Sarmin Sultana, Marufa Akter, Fariha Trisna, Sultana Khatun, Sanjida Akter Meghla, Juairiya Ferdous.