Bangladesh is set to compete in the Women’s Asian Cup this March, with a 29-member preliminary squad announced last Wednesday. Training camp for the team began a day earlier. However, head coach Peter Butler will not be present with the main squad, as he is currently in Nepal overseeing the Under-19 team.
Butler’s absence, coupled with the exclusion of senior players such as Sabina Khatun from the preliminary squad, has sparked questions among fans and analysts. Many have wondered why the national team’s head coach chose to travel with the age-group SAF team while Bangladesh prepares for its debut in the Asian Cup, a tournament that could open doors to World Cup and Olympic qualification.
Responding to the criticism on Thursday, the British coach explained his reasoning: “It was not feasible to organise an overseas training camp, which is critical for our preparations. Therefore, I am monitoring the Under-19 team in Nepal while evaluating the senior squad over a seven-day period. A couple of exceptionally talented players from the Under-19 team are under consideration for the AFC Asian Cup squad.”
On the inability to arrange a foreign training camp, Butler added: “It is unfortunate that we could not arrange a camp abroad, but we are moving forward with positivity and determination.”
The preliminary squad notably excludes five players, including Sabina Khatun, who had previously withdrawn in January amid disputes. Following SAF Women’s Football League, where these players contributed to Bangladesh’s championship, there were renewed calls for their inclusion. Many argued that these experienced players could have been assessed in the camp or trials, but Butler opted to exclude them for the time being.
Addressing concerns about fairness and opportunities, Butler emphasised: “I want to make it clear that the final squad has not been announced. All players still have a chance. We have currently formed a preliminary training group, and some selections may change due to injuries sustained during the league.”
Bangladesh has been placed in Group B for the Asian Cup. The team’s fixtures are as follows:
| Date | Opponent | Venue | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 March | China | TBD | Group B Match |
| 6 March | North Korea | TBD | Group B Match |
| 9 March | Uzbekistan | TBD | Group B Match |
Coach Butler’s approach highlights a delicate balance between developing young talent and preparing the senior team for a historic tournament. With the Asian Cup serving as a potential gateway to global competitions, the national team’s selections and strategies are under intense scrutiny, and fans eagerly await the final squad announcement.