‘Didn't Have Proper Clothes…-’ Women's World Cup sensation Marufa Akter gets emotional recalling her struggle days

Bangladesh pacer Marufa Akter made a dream start to her Women’s World Cup journey. Playing her debut match in the tournament, the 20-year-old delivered an impressive spell that turned the game in her team’s favour.

Marufa bowled seven overs, conceding just 31 runs while picking up two key wickets. Her early breakthroughs were crucial as she dismissed Pakistan’s opener Omaima Sohail and top-order batter Sidra Amin, putting the opposition under pressure right from the start.

Pakistan struggled to recover from the early blows, managing only 129 runs. Bangladesh chased down the target comfortably with seven wickets in hand. Marufa’s outstanding performance earned her the well-deserved ‘Player of the Match’ award in her World Cup debut.

See Also: Virat Kohli's dating history and list of ex-girlfriends before marriage to Anushka Sharma

Marufa Akter Opens up About Her Struggle in Life:

Marufa Akter’s impressive ability to swing the ball both ways has quickly made her a sensation in women’s cricket. Experts are already hailing her as one of the finest fast-bowling prospects to emerge from the subcontinent in recent years.

Hailing from Nilphamari in Bangladesh, Marufa is enjoying her well-deserved recognition but continues to stay grounded. Her journey has been shaped by years of financial hardship and determination. Growing up in a modest household, she faced numerous challenges, yet her perseverance and love for the game helped her overcome every obstacle to become one of Bangladesh’s brightest young stars.

She said, “ They wouldn't invite us to various gatherings (like weddings), saying we didn't have proper clothes. If we go there, we'll lose our respect — that's what they used to say (tears). There was a time when we couldn't even afford new clothes for Eid (tears). My father is a farmer. We didn't have much money, and even the people in the village where I grew up weren't very supportive.”

Today, Marufa stands as a proud daughter, providing for her family through her success in cricket. Her journey from struggle to strength inspires many across Bangladesh and beyond.

She further said, “ Actually, the position we are in now—others aren't quite there. The way I support my family, perhaps many boys can't do the same. That gives me a special kind of peace. As a child, I used to wonder when people would look at us with admiration and applaud. Now, when I see myself on TV, I feel shy (laughs).”