Former Bangladesh women's cricketer Jahanara Alam has brought forth serious allegations of sexual harassment and physical abuse against officials and the current team captain, prompting the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) to launch an investigation.
Jahanara claims former team manager and selector Manjurul Islam sexually harassed her and other players during the 2022 Women's World Cup. She alleged he inquired about players' menstrual cycles and made unwanted physical advances (pulling players close). Alam states she was prevented from playing after she rejected his advances, a delay in reporting she attributes to fear of career repercussions. Manjurul Islam has denied the allegations. The Cricketer also accused current captain Nigar Sultana Joty of repeatedly physically assaulting junior teammates, citing a specific incident during a tour in Dubai.
The BCB has acknowledged Alam's complaints and initiated a formal inquiry, requesting a report within 15 working days. However, the board has publicly refuted the physical abuse claims against the captain, labeling them "false, baseless and fabricated" and harmful to team morale. The BCB has urged all parties to avoid speculation during the investigation.
The BCB announced that Jahanara Alam, a leading pace bowler, has taken an indefinite break from cricket due to mental health issues. BCB women's wing in-charge Habibul Bashar confirmed Alam's request for a two-month mental health break and her willingness to be excluded from the contract list if necessary, stating the board respects her decision.
The BCB announced the squad for the upcoming West Indies tour (three ODIs and three T20Is in St Kitts, starting January 19). Jahanara Alam and Ritu Moni were left out of both the ODI and T20I squads.
The ODI series is crucial, as the team needs to win the series to secure the required ICC Women's Championship points for direct qualification to the 50-over World Cup in India later this year.
Players like Lata Mondal, Fariha Islam (ODI), Marufa Akter, and Sultana Khatun (T20I) have returned to the squad.
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