Jahanara Alam, born on April 1, 1993, is a prominent figure in Bangladeshi women’s cricket.
Bowling Carrer of Jahanara Alam
| FORMAT | Mat | Inns | Balls | Runs | Wkts | BBI | BBM | Ave | Econ | SR | 4w | 5w | 10w |
| WODI | 52 | 52 | 2054 | 1459 | 48 | 3/18 | 3/18 | 30.39 | 4.26 | 42.7 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| WT20I | 78 | 78 | 1418 | 1329 | 57 | 5/28 | 5/28 | 23.31 | 5.62 | 24.8 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
Early Life
Born and raised in Khulna, Bangladesh, her initial passion was handball and volleyball, sports typically considered more suitable for girls. However, her path to cricket was shaped by her encounter with Sheikh Salahuddin, a player and coach of the Khulna Division men’s cricket team.
Despite having no prior knowledge of cricket, Jahanara Alam’s decision to try out for the sport was motivated by the promise of Bangladesh having its own women’s cricket team. Her family, particularly her father and grandmother, supported in pursuing her dream.
Emerging as a Fast Bowler
Initially, Jahanara faced challenges in cricket trials. Within a month of practice, she transformed into a fast bowler. Her success in local tournaments led to her selection in the national camp.
Many advised her to prioritize studies and marriage over cricket. Still, Jahanara’s father stood firmly by her side.
While she didn’t initially follow cricket closely, Jahanara Alam’s coach introduced her to the bowling action of Brett Lee through YouTube videos. This inspired her to generate more pace and swing in her bowling. While she occasionally followed players from various nations, her ultimate idol remains Mashrafe Mortaza.
Career Highlights
Jahanara Alam’s entry into the national team came during a Hong Kong tour of Bangladesh in March 2008.
One of her most remarkable moments was taking a hat-trick in an unofficial 50-over format match during that tour, creating a buzz and changing perceptions about women in cricket.
Her official ODI debut was against Ireland on November 26, 2011, and she made her T20I debut against India on August 28, 2012. Jahanara Alam played a pivotal role in Bangladesh’s historic win in the 2018 Women’s Asia Cup and became the first bowler for Bangladesh to take a five-wicket haul in WT20Is against Ireland in June 2018.
In 2018 ICC Women’s World Twenty20 tournament and being named the standout player in the team by the International Cricket Council (ICC). Her journey continued with appearances in various international tournaments, including the 2020 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.
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