Women's Premier League starts tomorrow, Nigar voices ‘injustice’ concerns

The long-standing demand for a more structured domestic platform in women's cricket remains unmet.

National team players have repeatedly voiced their frustration over the irregularity of the league, which they believe limits opportunities for emerging talents.

With that lingering disappointment, Nigar Sultana Joty, Salma Khatun, and others are set to begin the Dhaka Premier Division Women's Cricket League as it kicks off tomorrow.  

For the first time in years, women's domestic cricket returns to Mirpur's Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium. The question of why the venue rarely hosts women's league matches remains unanswered. Nigar herself struggled to recall the last time she played domestic cricket there—only to later realise she had played just once, possibly 14 years ago.  

The league's inconsistency is also a concern for the national team captain. This year, the number of participating teams has dropped to nine, with last season's third-placed Rupali Bank opting out. However, Nigar expects intense competition: "Although there are fewer teams, at least four or five are quite strong, which will create a competitive environment for players."  

For players outside the national team, the Premier League serves as a crucial platform to prove themselves. That's why Nigar stresses its importance: "At times, women cricketers face injustice. Those outside the national team rely on domestic tournaments to showcase their skills. If these leagues aren't held regularly or expanded, it's disappointing for many players."  

This season carries added significance for national players as well. After a disappointing West Indies tour, Bangladesh must compete in qualifiers to secure a spot in the Women's ODI World Cup. Nigar sees this league as vital preparation: "Since we have the qualifiers ahead, this tournament is extremely important. Playing good cricket here will positively impact our performance in the qualifiers."  

These concerns were raised on Tuesday during the league's trophy unveiling in Mirpur. Despite limited venues and restricted opportunities, Nigar sees the league's continuation as a positive step and hopes for quality match balls this season.  

Defending champions Salma Khatun's Mohammedan Sporting Club will face Nigar's newly formed Sheltech Cricket Academy at Mirpur on the opening day. Elsewhere, Abahani take on Bangladesh Police Cricket Club at BKSP, while Khelaghar Samaj Kalyan Samity meet Gulshan Youth Cricket Club at the ULAB ground. Other participating teams include BKSP, Bangladesh Ansar & VDP Women's Cricket Team, and Kalabagan Krira Chakra.