‘Players disheartened over Women's T20 World Cup not being in Bangladesh’
Bashar discusses the impact of relocating the Women’s T20 World Cup to the UAE, the team’s adaptation to new conditions, ongoing preparations, and future plans, including a new domestic tournament and the road to the 2025 ODI World Cup.
Former Bangladesh men's national cricket team captain, Habibul Bashar, dedicated years of service as a selector.
But now he is turning his focus towards the Women's Wing of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB).
The recent political unrest and chaos in Bangladesh have compelled the ICC to relocate the Women's T20 World Cup to the UAE.
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In light of this change, Bashar discusses the impact of relocating the Women's T20 World Cup to the UAE, the team's adaptation to new conditions, ongoing preparations, and future plans, including a new domestic tournament and the road to the 2025 ODI World Cup in an exclusive interview with The Business Standard.
The Women's T20 World Cup, initially scheduled to be held in Bangladesh, has now been relocated to the UAE. How has this change affected the team's morale?
After speaking with the players, it's clear that there's a noticeable sense of regret. Many of them had envisioned and aspired to play the World Cup on home soil. The move was certainly disheartening for them. However, their determination to excel in the tournament remains unchanged. They remain fully focused on their goal. Had the World Cup been hosted in Bangladesh, it would have been a tremendous opportunity for women's cricket to gain substantial visibility in the country and inspire future female cricketers.
How has the change in location impacted the team's mindset, particularly regarding playing in different conditions?
We will certainly miss playing in familiar home conditions. The matches will now take place in Sharjah and Dubai, with most games in Sharjah. From what I understand, the conditions in Sharjah are quite similar to those in Bangladesh. Therefore, I don't anticipate this change making a significant difference.
Has this relocation affected the team's preparation in any way?
No, we are following our original preparation plan. The women's National Cricket League (NCL) is about to start. Although this tournament is typically played in a 50-over format, we've decided to adapt it to the 20-over format this time. Additionally, the 'A' team will be touring Sri Lanka, providing valuable match practice on slow pitches similar to those in Sharjah and Dubai.
Will the 'A' team's squad include players who are being considered for the World Cup?
It's too early to confirm specifics. However, as the World Cup approaches, I expect the selectors will include players who are in contention for the tournament.
Recently, the women's team's batting performance has not been up to standard. How are the players addressing this issue ahead of the World Cup?
It's true that the top order's recent form has been a concern, particularly during the Asia Cup and series against India and Australia. Both the players and coaches are aware of this issue. In the remaining time, the team is concentrating on improving the batting to enhance our performance in the World Cup.
Are there any personal targets or goals for players in terms of performance?
While personal goals are natural and each player likely has their own, our primary focus must be on playing as a cohesive unit for the benefit of the team and the overall growth of women's cricket in Bangladesh.
What are your long-term plans following the World Cup?
With the ODI World Cup scheduled for 2025, we will immediately start preparing for it after the T20 World Cup. We have a series against Ireland in November and another against the West Indies in January. These six matches (three against each) will be crucial for our ODI World Cup qualification, as we need to be ranked 7th. Therefore, these upcoming series will be pivotal, and we need to approach them with the utmost seriousness.
Are there any plans for the women's domestic circuit?
We are aiming to launch the Women's Premier League in the 50-over format around February-March. With the Under-19 World Cup approaching, there will be plans and preparations aligned with that. Personally, I also wish to introduce a first-class tournament similar to the Bangladesh Cricket League (BCL). This initiative is crucial for the development of Test cricket. Overall, I hope to implement these plans and significantly enhance the profile of women's cricket in Bangladesh.
