Ekushey Padak 'is a great honour’, says women's football team captain Sabina

This is the first time in the country’s history that a sports team has been honoured with the Ekushey Padak

Amid the mounting challenges facing women’s football in Bangladesh, a beacon of good news has emerged. The Bangladesh national women’s football team have been named a recipient of the prestigious Ekushey Padak, the second-highest civilian honour in the country.

Sabina Khatun, the team’s captain, voiced her excitement over the recognition, marking a moment of immense pride for the squad.

Fourteen distinguished citizens of Bangladesh, alongside the national women’s football team, have been nominated for this year’s Ekushey Padak, a recognition of their significant contributions across various fields. Cultural Affairs Advisor Mostofa Sarwar Farooki unveiled the list of recipients during a press conference at the Secretariat on Thursday.

The Bangladesh women’s football team have recently made history, securing two consecutive SAFF championships in 2022 and 2024. Yet, the sport faces a period of turmoil, with tensions running high.

Eighteen footballers, including two-time SAFF-winning captain Sabina Khatun, along with prominent players such as Masura Parvin, Maria Manda, Rupna Chakma, and Matsushima Sumaiya, have publicly rebelled against coach Peter Butler.

A few days ago, Sabina and Masura, along with other key players, issued a three-page statement declaring their refusal to return to practice under the leadership of Butler. They vowed to resign if he remained in charge, leveling serious allegations against the English coach, including accusations of “abuse”, “body shaming”, and “mental torture”.

Despite the ongoing tensions, the rebellious players remain resolute in their stance.

Amid this turbulent backdrop, the team were named as one of the fifteen winners of the Ekushey Padak. This is the first time in the country’s history that a sports team has been honoured with the prestigious award.

Mahfuza Akhter Kiron, chairman of the Bangladesh Football Federation [Women’s Wing], shared her thoughts with bdnews24.com, emphasising that this recognition would serve as an inspiration for young girls aspiring to achieve greatness in the future.

“The Ekushey Padak is being awarded to the SAFF-winning women, which is undoubtedly a moment of pride,” she said.

“Any form of recognition for girls is a source of joy and encouragement. My sincere thanks and gratitude to all those who were on the nomination board and nominated these girls for recognition. This recognition will inspire the girls to do better in the future.”

In a short response to the news, captain Sabina said: “It feels good to hear about this. This medal is a great honour. Many thanks to Allah.”