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"They could read minds": Bangladesh mainstay lauds Mandhana, Healy after Women's WC

Poulomi Chakraborty

Rubya Haider on Smriti Mandhana (Source: @doncricket_/x.com)Rubya Haider on Smriti Mandhana (Source: @doncricket_/x.com)

More than a week ago, the Women’s World Cup 2025 was wrapped up. Beyond India’s historic triumph, the tournament gifted fans unforgettable moments that will be cherished for years to come.

Though Bangladesh Women bowed out in the group stage, the tournament held special meaning for Rubya Haider, who made her ODI debut on the grand stage. Reflecting on the tournament, she unveiled her admiration for Smriti Mandhana and Alyssa Healy.

Rubya finds her inspiration in Smriti Mandhana and Alyssa Healy

Representing their nation in the World Cups is a dream of every budding cricketer, and sometimes the dream becomes extra special as they make their debut on the big stage. Bangladesh’s promising batter Rubya Haider lived the moment as she made her ODI debut against Pakistan Women in the Women’s World Cup.

In her debut match, she smashed an exceptional half-century and played an unbeaten knock of 54 runs. Reflecting on the tournament, she recalled her favorite moments and expressed deep admiration for Indian star Smriti Mandhana in a chat with The Daily Star.

“Smriti Mandhana, I watched her batting in the last match. As a lefty, I liked her batting more because she looked cool and calm while batting,” she said.

Adding to this, she shared her admiration for Australian captain Alyssa Healy. Facing Bangladesh, Healy smashed an outstanding century, and Rubya couldn’t stop admiring her.

“Alyssa Healy, too, and struck a ton against us. Seeing them, it felt like they could read minds or something, that's how they play cricket. They have been playing cricket for many years, and experience matters a lot,” she added.

Representing Bangladesh is a dream come true, says Haider

On her ODI debut, Rubya Haider quickly emerged as a key figure in Bangladesh’s batting lineup. In seven matches, she scored 144 runs and became the fourth-highest run scorer for Bangladesh in the tournament. Reflecting on the experience, Rubya described representing her nation on the grand stage as nothing short of a dream come true.

“It's a different feeling because the atmosphere there is different. It felt like a dream to me at that time. I got the opportunity to see many good players up close, learn about their skills, their confidence, and knowledge,” she added.

Even after starting the tournament with a thrilling victory over Pakistan Women, Bangladesh lost its flow and faced consecutive defeats. The setbacks pushed them down to seventh place, finishing just above Pakistan in the final standings.