Jessy’s journey from player to umpire
The 34-year-old Jessy, who represented Bangladesh in two ODIs and one T20I between 2011 and 2013, has steadily built her reputation in officiating since retiring from international cricket. She has umpired in high-profile tournaments such as the Women’s Asia Cup, the Under-19 Asia Cup, the Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup in Malaysia, and the Women’s ODI World Cup Qualifiers earlier this year in Pakistan.
Her consistent performances have now earned her a place in the panel for the upcoming Women’s ODI World Cup, which begins September 30 across India and Sri Lanka. Bangladesh will open their campaign against Pakistan on October 2 in Colombo.
ICC hails landmark appointment
The International Cricket Council described Jessy’s selection as a pivotal moment for the sport.
“Shathira’s appointment embodies the progressive expansion of women’s roles in cricket officiating and reflects the inclusive future of the sport,” the ICC said in a statement.
The Bangladesh Cricket Board also celebrated the achievement as a source of national pride and a breakthrough for women’s representation in officiating.
Jessy: “I had been waiting for this for so long”
Speaking to T Sports in an interview, Jessy said the opportunity was a long-cherished dream that exceeded even her own expectations.
“I had been waiting for this for so long – finally, the opportunity to officiate in the World Cup has come. 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,” she said.
Reflecting on her path to selection, she added:
“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.”
Inspiring change in South Asian cricket
Jessy’s inclusion on the World Cup panel is being celebrated as a powerful step for women’s cricket in Bangladesh and across South Asia. The country has historically faced hurdles in developing women’s participation in the sport, and Jessy’s achievement is expected to inspire a new generation of players and officials.
