Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Pranay Verma, hosted a special reception at India House, Dhaka, to honour the Bangladesh Women’s Cricket Team as they prepare to depart for the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 — co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
Joined by his wife, Manu Verma, the High Commissioner welcomed players, coaching staff, and officials — including Nazmul Abedin, Chairman of the Bangladesh National Women’s Cricket Wing, and trailblazing umpire Shathira Zakir, who will become the first Bangladeshi woman to officiate at an ICC World Cup.
In his address, High Commissioner Verma emphasised the deep cultural, linguistic, and historical ties between India and Bangladesh and added that cricket has become a powerful emotional bridge between the two nations.
“But today, it’s not just about rivalry or records, it’s about representation,” Verma said. “The Bangladesh women’s team has shown extraordinary growth, skill, and spirit. They’re not just playing cricket — they’re redefining what’s possible for young girls across South Asia.”
Calling the team “a symbol of women’s empowerment and youth power,” Verma declared:
“We stand with them with pride. I hope they inspire every girl in Bangladesh — and beyond — to chase her dreams fearlessly.”
He concluded by wishing the team “courage, confidence, and victory” on the global stage.
The event also spotlighted Shathira Zakir, whose selection as an on-field umpire for the World Cup marks a landmark achievement for Bangladesh — breaking barriers in a domain long dominated by men.
Her presence at the reception drew applause and underscored the broader theme of the evening: progress, inclusion, and the rising influence of women in South Asian sport.
The 13th edition of the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup runs from September 30 to November 2, 2025, across iconic venues in India and Sri Lanka. For Bangladesh, the tournament is more than a competition — it’s a platform to showcase resilience, talent, and regional solidarity.
As the Tigers prepare to face global powerhouses, their journey is already being celebrated — not just in stadiums, but in diplomatic salons, where sport becomes soft power, and athletes become ambassadors.