Para athletes seek BCB support in bid for Asian Games medals

Bangladesh's Para athletes have set their sights on the podium and are now seeking greater institutional support as they prepare for the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Para Games in Japan.

With plans to compete in six disciplines, the country's Para athletes are continuing intensive preparations, hoping to turn years of perseverance into medals on one of Asia's biggest sporting stages.

Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) director and Finance Committee chairman Israfil Khasru visited the training camp at Dhaka National Stadium on Saturday, where discussions were held on the development of Para sports and possible structural support from the country's cricket authority.

"Initial discussions have taken place with the BCB regarding the development of Para sports, including activities for physically challenged cricketers outside mainstream cricket," Khasru said after visiting the camp.

"If all federations and relevant institutions work together, the development of Para sports can gather greater momentum."

National Paralympic Committee of Bangladesh (NPC) president Nasirul Islam said the country had identified boccia, athletics, archery and swimming as disciplines offering realistic medal prospects.

"Several of our athletes are ranked in the world rankings, while the recent success in swimming at the Asian Youth Para Games has also given us confidence," he said.

Asian Youth Para Games gold and bronze medallist swimmer Md Shahidullah said Bangladesh's ultimate target in Japan was to win gold at senior level. Para archer Juma Akter, meanwhile, vowed to give everything for a podium finish.

NPC general secretary Dr Maruf Ahmed Mridul said preliminary entries had been submitted for six disciplines, with the final selection process under way.

As the countdown to Japan gathers pace, Bangladesh's Para athletes know the road ahead will not be a bed of roses. But with hard work, support and belief in their armoury, they are determined to leave no stone unturned in their pursuit of Asian glory.