PHOTO: SAFF

SPORTS REPORTER from Margao

Peter Butler has labelled Ritu Porna Chakma as one of the finest wingers in South Asia and even Asia, but Bangladesh are still waiting to see the forward at her devastating best in the ongoing SAFF Women’s Championship.

As the defending champions prepare to face India in Saturday’s final, much of the spotlight remains on their proven big-match performer. Bangladesh remain on course for a hattrick of titles, but their attack has yet to click into top gear, with Ritu scoring just once in three matches.

Yet the 22-year-old has repeatedly shown an ability to rise when it matters most. Her Olympic goal against Nepal in the semifinal helped Bangladesh reach another final, while she also scored the winner in the the 2024 SAFF final. Ritu was also a driving force behind Bangladesh’s historic qualification for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup last year. With another trophy on the line, Bangladesh will be hoping their big-match player can turn the tide once again in today’s all-important final.