ICC Chairman Jay Shah emphasized the organization’s commitment to inclusivity in cricket, stating:
“We are fully dedicated to fostering a sport where every cricketer has the chance to thrive, regardless of their circumstances.”
Shah announced the launch of a specialized taskforce and support fund, established in collaboration with key partners. This initiative will be bolstered by a high-performance programme designed to ensure that displaced Afghan women cricketers can continue pursuing their passion for the game.
“This effort underscores our unwavering commitment to the global growth of cricket and its ability to inspire unity, resilience, and hope,” Shah added.
Under ICC regulations, all full member nations — including Afghanistan — are required to maintain a national women’s team. Despite ongoing challenges, Afghanistan’s men’s team has retained its Test status, reached the semi-finals of the 2024 T20 World Cup, and participated in the Champions Trophy earlier this year.
England’s fixture against Afghanistan in that tournament proceeded as planned, despite calls from a cross-party group of MPs urging England to boycott the match in protest.