Afghanistan’s women refugee cricketers will play in England next month, marking a significant milestone in a five-year effort to rebuild their careers and stay connected to the sport after being barred from athletic activities under the Taliban’s return to power.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) announced on May 22 the tour of the Afghan refugee team, which includes players who once held contracts with the Afghanistan Cricket Board and were forced to flee the country after being “systematically excluded from sport and public life” by the Taliban.
The tour begins on June 22 with Twenty20 matches, plus training opportunities and attendance at the Women’s T20 World Cup final at Lord’s on July 5.
The ECB stressed the tour “carries significant cultural and sporting meaning.” The governing body said: “This trip is not only a chance for them to compete as a team, but a moment for cricket in this country to stand up for inclusion and protect women’s participation in sport.”
Most Afghanistan women players have resettled in Australia, where they continue to play in domestic leagues, but are not allowed to take part in international cricket even though the International Cricket Council (ICC) requires all member nations with national teams to support both men’s and women’s sides. The athletes have repeatedly called on the ICC to reform so they can be recognised as a refugee team.
The team’s reintegration is supported by the consultancy company “It’s Game On”, co-founded by former Australian player Mel Jones. Jones said: “These players have shown extraordinary courage and commitment to the sport, despite everything that has been taken from them. They deserve more opportunities; they deserve to be recognised as part of the global cricket community.”
ECB deputy chief executive Clare Connor said cricket “has a responsibility to stand up for inclusion and opportunity.” “We are proud to host this tour and support the players in deepening their connection with the sport,” Connor added.
