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In a groundbreaking achievement for Bangladesh cricket, former national team player Shathira Jakir Jessy is poised to make history as the first Bangladeshi woman to officiate as an umpire in a senior World Cup. The 34-year-old’s selection for the upcoming Women's ODI World Cup, scheduled to begin in India on September 30, marks a significant milestone in her post-playing career.
Jessy’s journey from the cricket field to the umpire’s box has been marked by dedication and rapid progress. Born on February 19, 1990, in the Faridpur District of Bangladesh, she was passionate about cricket from a young age. While details about her family remain private, her career has been a public testament to her commitment to the sport. She represented Bangladesh in two ODIs and one T20I between 2011 and 2013 before transitioning to her new role as an official. Her husband, Sharfuddoula Saikat, is also a highly respected international umpire, creating a remarkable cricketing family. Saikat himself made history in 2023 as the first Bangladeshi umpire to officiate in a men's Cricket World Cup, overseeing five matches. Jessy is now set to join him in this elite group, further cementing their shared legacy.
Her rise as an umpire has been swift and impressive since her debut in 2022. She has officiated at several prestigious events, including the Under-19 Asia Cup and the Under-19 T20 World Cup in Malaysia. Earlier this year, she was part of the umpiring panel for the Women's ODI World Cup Qualifiers in Pakistan and also umpired the Bangladesh Emerging Team's home series against South Africa. Her notable performance at the Women’s Asia Cup last year, where she was part of the officiating team for the final between India and Sri Lanka, further highlighted her skills and growing reputation.
In an interview with T Sports, Jessy expressed her long-awaited excitement. "I had been waiting for this for so long – finally, the opportunity to officiate in the World Cup has come," she said. "I had hoped for a chance in the T20 World Cup, but that didn't happen. God had something greater (the ODI World Cup) planned for me."
Jessy humbly acknowledged the unexpected nature of the call-up. "I never even thought about it, I didn't even hope to get the opportunity this time. The last few series, the Under-19 World Cup, the World Cup qualifiers in Pakistan – all went really well. My performances were good, and maybe that's why I got this opportunity."
While Jessy’s personal focus will be on her umpiring duties, the Bangladesh women's team is also set for a significant campaign. Making their second consecutive appearance in the World Cup, they will face formidable opponents in their group stage matches. Their journey begins on October 2 against Pakistan in Colombo, followed by a match against England in Guwahati on October 7. They will conclude their group stage with a highly anticipated match against India on October 26 in Bengaluru.
Shathira Jakir Jessy’s selection is more than just a personal triumph; it is a powerful symbol of progress for women in sports in Bangladesh and beyond. As she steps onto the world stage, she carries the hopes and pride of a nation, proving that the pathway to excellence is not limited to the playing field. Her historic appointment is a beacon of inspiration for aspiring female athletes and officials everywhere.
