Marufa Akter Shines as Bangladesh Secures Historic ODI Win

The Bangladesh women’s cricket team celebrated a remarkable victory over Pakistan in their opening match of the Women’s ODI World Cup, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. Key to this triumph was pacer Marufa Akter, whose stellar performance not only marked her debut on the international stage but also showcased her potential as a leading bowler. Following the match at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Marufa expressed her determination, stating, “I always think, when I’m sleeping, always I’m thinking, first match, I do better. Always, I am the match winner.”

At just 20 years old, Marufa became the sole pacer in a lineup predominantly featuring spinners, a choice aimed at adapting to the slow pitch conditions. Her skills proved invaluable as she delivered an impressive opening over, taking two wickets in quick succession, which left Pakistan reeling. Her inswing deliveries drew praise from cricketing legends, including Lasith Malinga, who highlighted her “pure skill” and “excellent control.”

Building a Strong Foundation

Marufa’s journey to this point has been marked by significant personal and professional growth. Under the guidance of former strength and conditioning coach Ian Durrant, she has transformed her physical capabilities, increasing her bench press from 25-30 kg to approximately 42-44 kg and enhancing her squat strength from 30-35 kg to 60 kg. In a video shared by the Bangladesh Cricket Board, she enthused about her progress and her admiration for players like Diana Baig, noting, “Her arm is very strong. I love her swing; she can do inswing and outswing.”

Marufa’s ascent in cricket began in earnest during her teenage years, where she emerged as a standout player at the 2023 U-19 T20 World Cup and delivered commendable performances at the 2022 Asian Games. Her captain, Nigar Sultana Joty, has closely observed her development, noting that Marufa has matured significantly, now taking charge of her bowling strategy and plans, especially during critical moments in matches.

Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Opportunities

The path to success has not been easy for Marufa. Her background includes laboring on her family’s paddy field, a reality that was vividly captured in videos shared by coach Arifa Jahan Bithi. Despite the pandemic halting her initial training, Marufa’s resilience and hard work have paid off. Bithi, who runs Bangladesh’s first girls’ cricket academy, remarked on Marufa’s unique talent and dedication, stating, “That kind of pace bowling I have not seen from a player from this nation.”

For Marufa, cricket has not only changed her life but also transformed her family’s perspective. Initially, her father, a farmer, preferred that she pursue a conventional job. However, as Marufa began achieving success, her family’s support grew. “Day by day, when I started doing well, my family started supporting me very much,” she shared, underscoring the personal triumph behind her professional achievements.

Marufa’s journey from being discovered by Mohammedan Sporting Club at the age of 15 to becoming the ace bowler for Bangladesh has been remarkable. No longer the shy teenager, she now confidently engages with the media and relishes the opportunity to compete against top players globally. When asked about the possibility of playing in leagues such as the Women’s Premier League or the Women’s Big Bash League, Marufa expressed uncertainty, leaving the decision to her management while affirming her focus on the World Cup.

As the tournament progresses, her captain believes that Marufa’s exceptional start will attract attention from franchises, paving the way for future opportunities. Joty emphasized the importance of Marufa maintaining her focus, stating, “Right now, she should focus on the World Cup, and she needs to take care of building strength physically and mentally.”

For Marufa, the mantra remains clear: “It’s always me vs me and not me vs others.” With such determination, the cricketing world is watching closely, eager to see how her talent continues to unfold in this prestigious tournament.