Bangladesh have announced their squad for the upcoming Women’s Kabaddi World Cup, which the country is hosting for the first time. The tournament kicks off on Monday at the Shaheed Suhrawardi Indoor Stadium in Mirpur, marking a historic moment for the nation’s traditional sport and a key event under the Government of Bangladesh’s declared ‘Festival of Youth’.

The squad was revealed on Saturday during an official press conference at the National Kabaddi Stadium, although captain Rupali Akter and the coaching staff were absent as they were engaged in training at BKSP. But they later shared their expectations and ambitions for the global event.

The World Cup trophy will be unveiled on Sunday at the official residence of Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus at Jamuna, alongside the captains of all participating nations. Federation officials said, “We want to make the first-ever Women’s Kabaddi World Cup hosted in Bangladesh truly memorable and historic.”

This year’s tournament will feature 11 countries, Bangladesh, India, Chinese Taipei, Germany, Iran, Kenya, Nepal, Poland, Thailand, Uganda and Zanzibar.

Argentina had been one of the anticipated attractions, but the South American side withdrew at the last moment. Earlier, 14 teams were announced, but Japan, Korea, the Netherlands and Argentina pulled out as the event approached. Poland joined from the standby list, while Pakistan opted out after informing the IKF that their team was not in suitable condition.

To ensure fairness in officiating, referees have been invited from every participating country. Five referees from India have also joined, alongside a 10–12-member technical committee from Bangladesh.

Co-coach Arduzzaman Munshi expressed strong confidence in the team’s preparation. “We’ve trained with clear intent from day one. India are ahead, but except them we believe we can beat any team. We defeated Thailand in the Asian Championship, we’ve pushed top sides, and we are mentally tougher now. A medal isn’t just hope—it’s an achievable target.”

Captain Rupali Akter (Senior), who will retire after this World Cup, spoke with emotion, “This is my last tournament and my first as captain—it’s emotional and motivating. I must give my best and bring out the best in my teammates. I want to finish my career by giving the country a reason to smile.”

General Secretary S M Nawaz Shohag highlighted the broader importance of the event, “We are ranked fifth in the world. Through this World Cup, we have the opportunity to climb higher. As hosts, our first responsibility is to organise the event flawlessly to enhance Bangladesh’s global reputation.”

He also thanked the Ministry of Youth and Sports and all government agencies for ensuring smooth arrangements—from accommodation and transport to venue operations—adding that the event will significantly contribute to women’s empowerment in the country.

Ranked fifth globally, Bangladesh aim to reach the semifinals, which guarantees at least a bronze medal. The group draw will take place on Sunday.

Bangladesh Squad:

Shraboni Mallik, Brishti Biswas, Rupali Akter (Senior), Smriti Akter, Rekha Akhteri, Mebi Chakma, Rupali Akter, Anjuara Ratri, Sucharita Chakma, Khadija Khatun, Loba Akter, Yasmin Khanam, Israt Jahan Sadika, Tahrim.

Standby: Afroza, Lumbini Chakma

Coaches: Shahnaz Parvin Maleka, Arduzzaman Munshi.