Tigresses captain Nigar Sultana Joty is counting on support from the Bangladeshi expatriates in the United Arab Emirates when they take on Scotland Thursday in the 2024 Women’s Twenty20 World Cup opener at Sharjah.
The Tigresses last tasted victory in the competition 10 years ago when they defeated Ireland in the ninth-place play-off match in Sylhet.
Since then, Bangladesh have participated in four more World T20s and played 16 matches in total but never succeeded in winning a game.
Bangladesh were slated to host the tournament but it was shifted to Dubai and Sharjah after weeks of political unrest in July and August.
“I'm expecting a lot of spectators, because in Sharjah there are a lot of Bangladeshis there. And playing in this kind of event, I think more people will come watch us and support,” said Joty on the eve of their opening game.
“Yeah, [shifting the event from Bangladesh] was pretty disappointing initially. But the thing is we're very professional. Now we are here and we are going to play this and we are pretty fortunate that we will do something that is going to help all the fans and the families and friends to get cheered.”
Alongside Bangladesh and Scotland, England, South Africa and the West Indies make up Group B while Group A comprises Australia, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and New Zealand.
The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals.
The women in red and green will be confident heading into the Scotland clash after beating Pakistan in last Monday’s warm-up match in Dubai.
The Tigresses emerged victorious by 23 runs after majority of their batters chipped in with useful contributions, while all the bowlers were among the wickets and played their part well in the win.
