ICC initiative on Afghanistan women: Major engagement opportunities during the next 2 global meet. Cricket news
Women cricketers displaced from Afghanistan, who were forced to escape from their country after the Taliban return to power, would be provided with important engagement opportunities in the upcoming global programs, the ICC confirmed during its annual conference on Sunday.The players have been designed to join the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup to be held in India and Sri Lanka later this year, as well as the 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup in England.A decision made at the last ICC meeting in Harare led BCCI, ECB, and CA representatives for the formation of a high-power committee-three to support the most economically powerful cricket board-Afghan women cricketers, many of which have taken refuge in Australia.“According to the ICC initiative to support the displaced women cricketers of the Afghan dynasty, players will get significant engagement opportunities in ICC events including ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 and ICC in England next year, as well as through high performance initiatives and domestic sports opportunities.”“This initiative is being upgraded through a associate effort under the leadership of ICC under the supervision of Vice President Mr. Imran Khwaja, in collaboration with the Control Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), and Cricket Australia (CA).”
Although the ICC release did not specify the exact nature of “engagement opportunities” offered during two World Cups, it is understood that Afghan women players will have a chance to interact with international cricketers and participate in workshops organized by the elite coaches under the umbrella of ICC.As “domestic opportunities”, the details are not clear, especially since most of these players currently live in Australia. A potential approach may include integrating them in the ground level of the game, giving them the way to play grade cricket in the Australian system.
