Bangladesh Women pacer Jahanara Alam announces two-month mental health break from cricket

Bangladesh Women's leading fast bowler, Jahanara Alam, has decided to step away from cricket for two months, citing mental health concerns. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) confirmed her decision, mentioning that the 31-year-old has opted out of the upcoming tour of the West Indies. 

Jahanara has so far featured in 52 WODIs and 83 WT20Is and has been a key player of the Bangladesh team. Despite her contributions, the last year has been challenging for the pacer. After a year's absence, she returned to the squad in July 2024 but got limited opportunities. She did not feature in the T20 World Cup matches, and was benched during the ODI series against Ireland. Habibul Bashar, in charge of the BCB women’s team, opened up about respecting her decision. 

"She had given us a letter stating that she was not mentally ready to play and took a break from cricket for two months. She even said that if necessary, she should not be kept in the contract. We need to respect that because if someone feels that she is not mentally ready and wants to take a break for some days, we need to accept that. There is no specific time frame for which she is out. Whenever she feels well, she will let us know,” Bashar told Cricbuzz.

The West Indies tour is a historic moment for the Bangladesh women’s team as it is their first in the region. The Nigar Sultana-led team will play three ODIs and three T20Is at Warner Park in St. Kitts. The series is part of the ICC Women’s Championship points and is a step to secure direct qualification for the 50-over World Cup in India later this year. While Jahanara and all-rounder Ritu Moni missed selection, the squad has seen the return of players like Lata Mondal and Fariha Islam.

Also Read: BCB announces salary hike, match and series bonuses for Bangladesh Women

Bangladesh squad for West Indies tour

Nigar Sultana Joty (Captain), Nahida Akter (Vice Captain), Murshida Khatun, Dilara Akter, Sharmin Akter Supta, Sobhana Mostary, Shorna Akter, Lata Mondol, Rabeya, Fahima Khatun, Fariha Islam Trisna, Sultana Khatun, Farzana Haque, Taj Nehar, Shanjida Akther Maghla, Marufa Akter