Bangladesh have unveiled their squad for the upcoming Women’s Kabaddi World Cup, which the country will host for the first time. The announcement was made on Saturday during an official press conference at the National Kabaddi Stadium.

The tournament is scheduled to begin on Monday at the Shaheed Suhrawardi Indoor Stadium in Mirpur. The prestigious World Cup trophy will be unveiled on Sunday at the official residence of Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus at Jamuna, in the presence of captains from all participating nations.

This year’s tournament will feature 11 countries: Bangladesh, India, Chinese Taipei, Germany, Iran, Kenya, Nepal, Poland, Thailand, Uganda, and Zanzibar. Initially, 14 teams were expected to participate; however, Japan, Korea, the Netherlands, and Argentina withdrew as the event approached. Poland joined from the standby list, while Pakistan pulled out, citing that their team was not in suitable condition for the competition.

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.”

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.”

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.