DHAKA, Jan 1, 2025 (BSS) - Bangladesh Under-19 Women’s team captain Sumaiya Akter insisted on playing fearless cricket to thrive against any opponents in the T20 World Cup.

“If we can put up a fearless cricket show, it will give us an edge against any opponents. So playing bold cricket is our main mantra,” Sumaiya said here today after the team’s official photo session at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium.

The T20 World Cup will be held in Malaysia from January 12 to February 2.

"We didn't plan anything specially. We are thinking about playing match by match,” said the captain, brimming with confidence.

"Our team is very good. If we can do our jobs properly, then something good will happen. We know what our strong zones are. If we utilize our strong zone properly, it will definitely give us the success.

Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) President Faruque Ahmed appeared at the official photo session in New Year morning to inspire the girls.

The girls were also happy to meet the board president, "He advised us to play our natural game. He didn't put any pressure on us by setting any certain target. We are very happy that he came to meet us. All our teammates are happy."

Bangladesh are drawn in Group D along with Australia, Nepal and Scotland.

The top three teams from each group will move to the Super Six. In the Super Six, the six teams will be divided into two groups. The top two teams from each group will advance to the semifinals.

Bangladesh's first match will be against Nepal on January 18. Bangladesh will play against Australia and Scotland on January 20 and 22, respectively.

Even though Australia are in the group, Sumaiya said they not under any pressure. "Definitely our target will be to win against Australia. As I said earlier, we want to play fearless cricket to thrive in against any opponents,” she added.

Despite coming very close, Bangladesh could not become the champion of the U19 Women's Asia Cup recently. The dream was shattered when they lost the final against India. That tournament was also held in Malaysia a few days ago.

Bangladesh will be a little ahead in terms of knowing the condition well as the World Cup will also be held at the same venue, said Sumaiya,

"Since we played in Malaysia, it will give us a little benefit. We are familiar with the condition."

Coach Sarwar Islam is optimistic about Bangladesh’s chance in the T20 World Cup.

"Our bowling and fielding are up to the mark but we have lack of experience in batting department. We have been practicing for the last two months which gave the team a good shape. I am hopeful about these girls. They have the ability to do something extraordinary,” Imran said.

India are the defending champions in the event after clinching the title by beating England last time.