In a sport long dominated by men, where the roar of the crowd often drowns out the quiet triumphs of trailblazers, one woman is about to rewrite the script. Shathira Jakir Jessy, a former cricketer turned umpire, will stride onto the field this September in India—not just with a rulebook in hand, but with the hopes of a nation on her shoulders. At 34 years old, she will become the first Bangladeshi woman to officiate at a senior ICC World Cup, shattering ceilings and setting a precedent for generations to come.
In a groundbreaking moment for Bangladeshi cricket, Shathira Jakir Jessy is set to become the first woman from the country to officiate at a senior ICC World Cup. The 34-year-old former cricketer will take the field as an umpire at the upcoming Women’s ODI World Cup, scheduled to begin in India on September 30.
Jessy’s appointment marks a significant milestone not only for Bangladesh but for the broader cricketing community striving for greater gender representation in officiating roles. Her journey from national player to international umpire has been one of dedication, resilience, and trailblazing ambition.
A Career Built on Experience and Excellence
Before earning her spot at the senior World Cup, Jessy built an impressive umpiring résumé:
- Officiated at the Under-19 Asia Cup
- Served as an umpire during the Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup in Malaysia
- Participated in the Women’s ODI World Cup Qualifiers held earlier this year in Pakistan
- Oversaw matches in the Bangladesh Emerging Team’s home series against South Africa
- Her consistent performance and calm authority on the field have earned her respect across borders and paved the way for this historic opportunity.
Jessy has long been an advocate for women’s participation in cricket beyond the boundary ropes. Her transition from player to umpire reflects a broader shift in the sport, where women are increasingly taking on leadership roles in coaching, commentary, and officiating. “This is not just my achievement—it’s a win for every Bangladeshi girl who dreams of being part of the game,” Jessy said in a recent interview. “I hope this inspires more women to step into roles that were once considered out of reach.”
A Global Stage Awaits
As the cricketing world turns its attention to India for the Women’s ODI World Cup, Jessy’s presence will be a proud moment for Bangladesh. Her journey symbolizes progress, representation, and the breaking of long-standing barriers in sports. With her sharp eye and deep understanding of the game, Jessy is poised to make her mark—not just as an umpire, but as a pioneer.