Jahanara Alam, the Bangladesh women’s pacer who has spent two years in Australia, has asked to return to cricket and finish her career on the field.

The 33-year-old has contacted the BCB women’s wing about playing domestic and international cricket again.

Rafiqul Islam, head of the BCB women’s wing, confirmed the approach to Cricbuzz, saying: “Yes, she had contacted us and insisted she wants to return and she wants to play.”

Jahanara hopes to feature at domestic and international level.

She has not announced her retirement from international cricket, and Rafiqul said she wants a proper farewell, telling the board: “I want to retire by playing in the national team and that is the reason I have kept myself that fit.”

Jahanara debuted in 2011 and has played 52 one-day internationals and 83 T20Is for Bangladesh. As a former captain, she led the side in seven T20Is and two ODIs, which would add leadership experience to any comeback.

She last played for Bangladesh against Ireland in December 2024, then took an indefinite break citing mental exhaustion and moved to Australia, where she has played club cricket and trained. Since then she has not featured at any level of Bangladesh cricket.

After moving, she made allegations of sexual harassment against several officials in the BCB’s women’s department and levelled further accusations against captain Nigar Sultana Joty. She set out her case in a 13-page letter to the board.

The claims caused an uproar over the atmosphere in women’s cricket. Asked about alleged factionalism, Rafiqul said: “I don’t believe in any grouping. Many people may have personal rivalries with many people, but these are absolutely unacceptable in the interest of the country.”

The BCB will discuss her request seriously and make a final decision soon. Rafiqul stressed that the door to the national team is open to everyone, but selection must be earned on merit, through ability and fitness.