For decades, Bangladesh’s sporting spotlight largely belonged to men. But in recent years, women athletes -- particularly in cricket and football -- have rewritten that narrative.
With international victories, leadership roles and rising global recognition, Bangladeshi women are steadily carving out a powerful presence in the country’s sporting landscape.
On International Women’s Day, the stories of these athletes highlight not only their achievements on the field but also the perseverance required to overcome social barriers, limited facilities and financial constraints.
Rise of women’s cricket
Among the most prominent figures in Bangladesh women’s cricket is national team captain Nigar Sultana Joty.
Born in Rangpur, Joty began playing cricket as a child at a time when girls in the sport were still uncommon.
She often played alongside boys and faced frequent criticism about whether cricket was suitable for girls.
With encouragement from family members and coaches, she continued pursuing the game.
Joty made her international debut in 2015 and gradually established herself as one of the team’s most dependable batters and wicketkeepers.
She was part of the historic squad that won the Women’s Twenty20 Asia Cup in 2018, Bangladesh’s first major international women’s cricket title.
Later, she was appointed captain of the national team.
“Many people were surprised to see a girl playing cricket,” Joty said.
“Some even said cricket was not for girls. But I believed women could succeed if given the opportunity. Now when I see young girls coming to the field, I feel our hard work has been worthwhile.”
Experienced pacer Jahanara Alam represents another inspiring journey.
Growing up in Khulna, she initially played handball before discovering her passion for cricket.
Early in her career she was dropped from national trials, but the setback motivated her to train harder.
Her perseverance eventually earned her a place in the national team, where she has become one of Bangladesh’s leading fast bowlers.
“In the beginning there were many obstacles,” she said.
“But I believed hard work would create opportunities. Now more girls see cricket as a career.”
Veteran all-rounder Salma Khatun, who once captained the national team, also rose from humble beginnings in rural Khulna.
At a time when girls playing sports was often discouraged, she continued pursuing cricket and eventually became one of the most experienced players in the squad.
“When we started, opportunities for women’s cricket were very limited,” she said.
“But we dreamed that Bangladesh women’s cricket would reach a bigger stage. Now that dream is gradually becoming reality.”
Football’s growing success
While cricket has expanded significantly, women’s football has also become a major source of national pride.
At the heart of this success is former national team captain Sabina Khatun.
Growing up in Satkhira, Sabina began playing football on village fields despite social resistance.
Her talent and determination soon earned her a place in the national team, and she later became Bangladesh’s leading international goal scorer while also playing in overseas leagues.
“In our time opportunities were limited and many people did not support girls playing football,” Sabina said.
“But we continued with our dreams. Now families are encouraging girls to play.”
Another standout footballer is Sanjida Akhter, who emerged from the football-loving village of Kolsindur in Mymensingh.
School football competitions helped launch her career before she progressed to the national team.
“Our dreams started on the village field,” she said.
“Now when I wear the national jersey, it feels like I carry the hopes of my entire village.”
A new generation
The new generation of footballers is represented by players like Ritu Porna Chakma from Rangamati.
Despite limited sports facilities in the hill region, she developed her skills locally and eventually progressed through youth teams to the national squad.
“As a child I played football just for fun,” she said.
“Now wearing the national jersey proves that girls from my region can also dream big.”
Forward Krishna Rani Sarkar, who grew up in a rural family, faced social criticism for choosing football but persisted and became an important attacking player for Bangladesh.
Meanwhile, defender Masura Parvin was a pioneering figure who helped lay the foundation for the national team’s backline.
“Playing for the national team is the greatest pride of my life,” Masura said.
“When the national anthem plays before a match, it reminds us that every sacrifice was worth it.”
Beyond the field
Many of these athletes emerged through youth teams, academies and national training programs.
Their journeys were often marked by financial challenges, social hesitation and limited infrastructure.
Yet increasing institutional support, international exposure and growing public recognition have helped improve opportunities for women in sports.
On International Women’s Day, their achievements represent more than victories on the scoreboard.
They stand as proof that with opportunity, determination and support, women athletes from village fields across Bangladesh can rise to compete -- and succeed -- on the global stage.