Bangladesh celebrated a historic achievement in women's cricket as spin bowler Nahida Akter earned a coveted spot in the ICC Women's ODI Team of the Year for 2023. Akter's impressive year, marked by consistent wicket-taking and clutch performances, earned her second place in the year's ODI wicket-takers tally, with only Australia's Ash Gardner taking more scalps.

Her selection is a testament to her remarkable rise in the cricketing world. In December 2023, Akter etched her name in history by becoming the first Bangladeshi player to be crowned the ICC Women's Player of the Month.

The dominant force in the ODI Team of the Year is undoubtedly Australia, with five players representing the world champions. However, Akter carved her own space in the lineup with her stellar performances against Pakistan and India.

She played a pivotal role in Bangladesh's thrilling series win over Pakistan, claiming seven wickets. In the heart-stopping second ODI that ended in a tie, Akter delivered a masterful Super Over, taking two wickets for just seven runs and paving the way for Bangladesh's comeback victory. She continued her dominance in the third ODI, clinching another three wickets to seal the series.

Akter's impact wasn't limited to Pakistan. She impressed against India too, grabbing six wickets at an impressive average of 15, helping Bangladesh draw the three-match series 1-1 and denying India a clean sweep.