Former Bangladesh women’s cricket star Arifa Jahan Bithi has made a dramatic return to coaching, reclaiming her role as manager of the Rangpur Division women’s team.
The outspoken figure was unceremoniously ousted from her position earlier this year after lending her support to student protesters during the tumultuous political upheaval that saw the former Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina, flee the country.
In a defiant Facebook post, Bithi confirmed her reinstatement, describing it as a “dignified” return. She also shed light on the circumstances of her dismissal, revealing that she had been punished for aiding the family of Abu Sayed, a student tragically killed during the demonstrations, as well as providing food and drink to the protesters themselves.
Sayed’s death became a potent symbol of the unrest, igniting widespread anger and galvanising the nation.
