In a powerful move to support inclusivity and protect the future of Afghan women’s cricket, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced the formation of a dedicated task force to assist displaced Afghan women cricketers.
The initiative, revealed on Sunday, includes the establishment of a special fund aimed at delivering direct monetary assistance. This financial aid will ensure that these women have the resources needed to continue pursuing their cricketing dreams despite political and social challenges that have forced them out of their home country.
But the support doesn’t end with money. The ICC also announced the launch of a high-performance training programme designed to offer displaced Afghan women access to advanced coaching, top-tier facilities, and tailored mentorship. This all-around approach is aimed at unlocking their full potential on the field.
“At the International Cricket Council, we are deeply committed to fostering inclusivity and ensuring every cricketer has the opportunity to shine, regardless of their circumstances,” said ICC Chairman Jay Shah in a press release. “This task force, alongside our support fund and training programme, is a step toward making sure these women do not lose their place in the sport.”
This groundbreaking initiative is not just an ICC-led effort — it’s a collaborative partnership involving major cricketing nations. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), and Cricket Australia (CA) are all backing the task force, making it a united front in support of women’s cricket.
Since the return of the Taliban to power in Afghanistan, women’s sports, including cricket, have faced severe restrictions. Many Afghan women cricketers have fled the country and have been left with limited resources and no official platform to continue their careers. This initiative marks a lifeline for them — a chance to not only survive but thrive.
By providing these athletes with everything from financial stability to elite training infrastructure, the ICC and its partners are not just supporting a group of players — they are making a bold statement about the future of women’s cricket and the importance of standing by those in crisis.
