An ‘unexplainable’ emotional return for Sabina

Former Bangladesh captain Sabina Khatun feels it is like breathing fresh air to be wearing the red and green jersey again following a long silence.

After more than a year away from the national spotlight, the familiar jersey will return to her shoulders, bringing with it emotion, pride, and renewed purpose.

For Sabina, this moment is not just a comeback -- it is a reminder of what it truly means to represent Bangladesh.

She is set to lead the Bangladesh women's team in the upcoming SAFF Women's Futsal Championship, to be held in Thailand from January 13-25.

After being overlooked for the women's football team for nearly a year following her disagreement with head coach Peter Butler in January last year, Sabina was named as captain for the preliminary futsal squad announced in December last year.

"The feeling of representing the nation is really unexplainable," Sabina said when she faced the media in a press conference yesterday for the first time after the fallout with Butler.

For her, the red and green symbolise honour, sacrifice, and responsibility, and returning to them after such a long gap has made the moment even more special.

Iranian head coach Saeid Khodarahmi announced the men's and women's squads after a month-long training camp, and the teams are leaving for Thailand well ahead of the tournament to adapt to the conditions and futsal facilities.

Sabina welcomes the preparation, knowing the team is still growing into the game.

Transitioning from regular football to futsal has been an exciting challenge for her. Sabina carries valuable experience, having been the first Bangladeshi female footballer to play international futsal tournament abroad.

She feels that experience has given her confidence and a natural comfort on the futsal court. More importantly, she sees this as an opportunity to contribute to the country in a new way.

"Now the girls know about futsal -- how to play it and understand the laws," she said, expressing optimism. Though the surface and style are different, the team has adapted well and shown promise.

As captain, Sabina is focused not only on results but also on inspiring the next generation.