Bangladesh’s star pacer Jahanara Alam has decided to take a two-month break from cricket due to mental health concerns. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) confirmed that the 31-year-old has opted out of the upcoming historic tour of the West Indies. This series is critical for Bangladesh as it contributes points for direct qualification to the 2025 ICC Women’s ODI World Cup.
Reason for Break
According to Habibul Bashar, in charge of BCB’s women’s wing, Jahanara submitted a letter stating that she was mentally unprepared to play. She even suggested being excluded from the central contract if needed.
“We need to respect that because if someone feels they are not mentally ready and wants to take a break, we need to accept that. Whenever she feels well, she will let us know,” said Bashar.
Jahanara’s Recent Performance
Jahanara returned to the national team in July 2024 after a year-long absence. Despite being selected for the Women’s T20 World Cup held in the UAE, she did not get an opportunity to play. She participated only in the T20Is during Bangladesh’s home series against Ireland but was benched for the ODI matches.
In her career so far, Jahanara has played 52 ODIs and 83 T20Is, taking a total of 108 wickets, including four and five-wicket hauls.
| Matches Played | ODIs | T20Is |
|---|---|---|
| Appearances | 52 | 83 |
| Total Wickets | 108 | – |
| Five-Wicket Hauls | 4 | – |
Impact on Bangladesh’s West Indies Tour
The upcoming tour marks Bangladesh women’s first-ever visit to the West Indies, where they will play three ODIs and three T20Is at Warner Park, St Kitts. With Jahanara unavailable, Bangladesh will miss her experience in the bowling department.
Vice-captain Nahida Akter shared her optimism for the series, mentioning that the team aims to secure crucial points for direct World Cup qualification.
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Bangladesh Squad for West Indies Tour
Here’s a look at the squad for the West Indies tour:
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Nigar Sultana Joty | Captain (Batter) |
| Nahida Akter | Vice-Captain (Bowler) |
| Murshida Khatun | Batter |
| Dilara Akter | Batter |
| Sharmin Akter Supta | Batter |
| Sobhana Mostary | All-Rounder |
| Shorna Akter | All-Rounder |
| Lata Mondol | All-Rounder |
| Rabeya | Bowler |
| Fahima Khatun | All-Rounder |
| Fariha Islam Trisna | Bowler |
| Sultana Khatun | Bowler |
| Farzana Haque | Batter |
| Taj Nehar | Bowler |
| Shanjida Akther Maghla | All-Rounder |
| Marufa Akter | Bowler |
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Upcoming Schedule
The ODI series will be held on January 19, 21, and 24, while the T20I series is scheduled for January 27, 29, and 31. The team will arrive in St Kitts on January 14 to begin preparations.
Jahanara Alam’s decision to prioritize her mental health reflects the growing awareness of psychological well-being in sports. The Bangladesh team respects her decision and hopes for her quick recovery. With crucial World Cup qualification points at stake, Bangladesh will aim to perform well in her absence during the West Indies tour.
