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Sobhana Mostary: Key to Bangladesh’s World Cup Qualification Hopes
Bangladesh Women’s Team Eyes Direct Qualification
As the Bangladesh national women’s cricket team prepares for its tour of the West Indies, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The team is set to play three ODIs and three T20Is, but all eyes are on the 50-over matches. Victory in at least two ODIs would secure their spot in the upcoming Women’s World Cup, scheduled to take place in India.
Currently placed seventh in the ICC Women’s Championship with 19 points, Bangladesh needs to climb to sixth place by earning at least four more points. This milestone would ensure direct qualification for the marquee event.
Leadership and Key Players
Nigar Sultana Joty to Lead from the Front
Captain Nigar Sultana Joty will lead the batting unit with her dependable performances. However, the team’s hopes also rest heavily on the shoulders of Sobhana Mostary, a dynamic batter capable of scoring quickly and changing the game’s momentum.
Sobhana Mostary’s Impact
Sobhana Mostary, a natural stroke-maker, has shown glimpses of brilliance. Chief Selector Sazzad Ahmed highlighted her importance, saying, “She can change her gear very quickly, and we witnessed that in the last World Cup.” Mostary emerged as Bangladesh’s leading run-scorer in the previous global tournament, showcasing her potential to deliver under pressure.
Despite a modest record of 108 runs in 13 ODIs and 434 runs in 34 T20Is before the World Cup, Mostary found her rhythm during the tournament. Her contributions of 36, 44, 16, and 38 in critical matches were pivotal to the team’s performance.
Sobhana Mostary’s Journey: From Struggles to Success
Challenges Before the World Cup
Reflecting on her pre-World Cup struggles, Mostary shared, “I faced many questions and doubted my abilities when I couldn’t perform in practice matches. Watching others succeed made me question myself.”
She credited her turnaround to a strong mindset, adding, “One good match can make the next games easier. It’s all about getting into my process and staying confident.”
Technical Improvements and Coaching Support
Mostary’s recent success is a testament to her hard work on technique and fitness. “We worked on strengthening my base and improving balance while playing shots,” she said. Her partnership with batting coach Nasiruddin Faruque, who shares her BKSP training background, has also been instrumental. “I feel comfortable sharing ideas with him. His guidance has improved my shot selection and balance significantly.”
What Lies Ahead for Bangladesh?
The upcoming ODI series will test the mettle of Bangladesh’s players. Success depends on the team’s collective efforts, with Sobhana Mostary and Nigar Sultana Joty playing crucial roles. The tour also serves as an opportunity to fine-tune strategies and build confidence ahead of the Women’s World Cup.
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