Bangladeshi Pace Prodigy Marufa Akter Stuns World Cup with Fiery Debut

In the lead-up to the 2025 Women's ODI World Cup, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, Bangladeshi pacer Marufa Akter was eagerly anticipating her debut on the grand stage. The 20-year-old's dream came true as she helped her side to a cherished win against Pakistan in the campaign opener in Colombo last month.

Akter's joy was evident as she proved her worth as the lone pacer in a lineup packed with spinners. Her inswinging deliveries left the Pakistani batters gasping, as she removed Omaima Sohail and Sidra Amin off successive balls in the very first over. This impressive display drew praise from several leading voices in world cricket, including Sri Lankan legend Lasith Malinga, who hailed Akter's "pure skill and excellent control."

Akter's rise to prominence has been a remarkable journey. Once a shy teenager who tilled the fields alongside her father, she is now an assured, smiling competitor who has caught the attention of the cricketing world. Her talent has been nurtured by the guidance of Bangladesh's former strength and conditioning coach Ian Durrant, and she has also drawn inspiration from the likes of Australian great Mitchell Starc and Pakistan's Diana Baig.

As Akter continues to impress on the world stage, her story has become an inspiration for aspiring cricketers in Bangladesh. With her sights set on the future, the young pacer remains focused on her own growth, determined to keep improving and proving herself against the best in the business.