The landscape of women's cricket in Bangladesh is facing scrutiny as former players voice concerns regarding the absence of formal maternity leave policies within the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB). One notable case is that of Suraiya Azmin, a former pacer, whose request for maternity leave went unanswered by the BCB.
Suraiya's Experience
After giving birth in August, Suraiya found herself excluded from the national contract list, while her salary and leave request remained unaddressed. She highlights a systemic issue affecting many female cricketers in Bangladesh— the lack of safeguards for players who wish to balance motherhood with their cricket careers.
Broader Implications
Suraiya is not alone in her struggles. Sanjida Islam Moyna, a former international cricketer, shares similar sentiments. Since her marriage in 2020, she continued playing until becoming a mother in 2025. Sanjida believes that the attitudes of officials and selectors towards marriage and motherhood significantly impact players’ careers.
- She notes a stigma against married players.
- Many female cricketers conceal their marital status or delay marriage to extend their playing careers.
For Sanjida, a lack of maternity support could potentially lead to more players stepping away from the game than necessary.
Stifling Aspirations
Suraiya's story reflects a broader societal perception that once a woman reaches a certain age or becomes a parent, their career is often seen as winding down. She expressed that a positive response from the BCB could have significantly changed her willingness to return to cricket, increasing it substantially.
Former national cricketer and umpire Sathira Jakir Jessy echoes this sentiment. Even as vice-captain, she felt the pressure of balancing her role as a mother with her cricket career. Sathira highlighted that many cricketers fear that motherhood could abruptly end their careers.
Comparative Global Practices
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has recently introduced guidelines for women returning to the sport post-pregnancy, which aim to assist member boards in creating supportive policies. Yet, these guidelines stop short of enforcing paid maternity leave.
Countries like Australia and New Zealand have implemented paid maternity leave for their contracted players. Moreover, Pakistan’s introduction of a Parental Support Policy in 2021 allowed player Bismah Maroof to captain her team six months after childbirth, showcasing the importance of support during this pivotal time.
A Call for Change
Fatema Tuz Jahara, a former player and current head coach of Qatar’s women’s team, points out the stark differences found abroad. She explains how in countries like Australia, cricket boards offer comprehensive maternity leave along with medical support, contrasting with Bangladesh’s ongoing struggles to provide such security for their players.
Fatema emphasizes that the economic need for female cricketers in Bangladesh to rely on their salaries significantly impacts decisions around marriage and childbirth. Many delay these life events due to the unpredictable nature of their cricketing careers.
BCB's Commitment
In response to recent criticisms, BCB Women’s Wing chairman Rafiqul Islam Babu stated that they will adhere to ICC guidelines moving forward. He assured that anyone requiring maternity leave in the future will be supported accordingly, although he could not confirm why the guidelines had not been established earlier.
BCB CEO Nizamuddin Chowdhury acknowledged the absence of a formal policy regarding maternity leave but indicated they are addressing these matters as they arise. He expressed a commitment to implementing necessary policies, yet the lack of immediate clarity leaves many players feeling uncertain.
The Path Forward
As the discourse around maternity leave within Bangladesh cricket continues, it is clear that without a formal policy, female cricketers may face ongoing challenges. Until the BCB enacts clear guidelines that outline paid leave and support for returning players, the fears surrounding motherhood and career longevity will persist.
