Bangla Press Desk: In modern elite football, travelling to a major continental tournament without a physiotherapist is not merely unusual — it is almost unthinkable. Yet the Bangladesh women’s national football team have found themselves in precisely that position in Sydney, where they are preparing for their historic maiden appearance in the AFC Asian Cup without a designated team physio.
The 38-member delegation departed Dhaka on 19 February, with the official squad list naming Zakia Rahman as the team’s physiotherapist. However, she did not travel due to health complications following a recent appendicitis surgery. No formal announcement was made explaining her absence and, more significantly, no replacement was included in the travelling party.
As a result, the team have already completed two full training sessions at Valentine Sports Park in Sydney without a physiotherapist present.
The absence of such medical oversight, even temporarily, raises concerns, particularly during a tournament build-up phase when training intensity is gradually increasing.
Sources within the federation indicate that efforts are now underway to urgently secure a physiotherapist locally in Australia. Having a qualified physio is mandatory during the main competition, making the situation not only concerning but also administratively sensitive.
On the pitch, the Bengal Tigresses have maintained professionalism and focus since arriving in Sydney on 20 February. They completed structured sessions designed to sharpen tactics and adapt physically to the warmer conditions. Team morale, however, remains steady.
At a moment that should mark a landmark chapter in Bangladesh women’s football, the absence of a crucial medical support figure has cast an unwelcome shadow over an otherwise historic campaign. Source: daily Sun
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