ICC Initiative to Support Displaced Afghan Women Cricketers

In a landmark move to promote inclusivity and protect the rights and aspirations of displaced athletes, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced the formation of a dedicated task force to support displaced Afghan women cricketers. This initiative, in partnership with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), and Cricket Australia (CA), aims to provide both monetary and developmental assistance to help these players continue their cricketing journey, despite the challenges posed by displacement and political turmoil.

Key Highlights of the Initiative

Formation of a Task Force

• A new task force has been set up by the ICC to specifically focus on the welfare and development of displaced Afghan women cricketers.

Collaboration with Global Cricket Boards

ICC has joined forces with,

• BCCI (India)
• ECB (England & Wales)
• CA (Australia)

Creation of a Dedicated Fund

• A monetary support fund will be established to directly assist Afghan women cricketers with essential resources.

High-Performance Programme

Comprehensive support through,

• Advanced coaching
• World-class training facilities
• Personalised mentorship programmes

Statements from ICC Leadership

• ICC Chair Jay Shah emphasized the importance of inclusivity and global unity through cricket.
• He reiterated the ICC’s dedication to ensuring every cricketer, regardless of circumstance, gets the opportunity to shine.

Broader Vision

• The initiative aims to use cricket as a unifying force across borders and as a source of hope and resilience.

Additional Decisions from the ICC Board Meeting

• Approval of Financial Statements: The consolidated group annual financial statements for 2024 were approved.
• Appointments and Re-appointments: Catherine Campbell re-appointed to the ICC Women’s Cricket Committee (WCC).
• New members added: Avril Fahey and Pholetsi Moseki (WCC).

Men’s Cricket Committee Appointments

• Sourav Ganguly re-appointed as Chair.

New and re-appointed members include,

• Hamid Hassan
• Desmond Haynes
• Temba Bavuma
• VVS Laxman (re-appointed)
• Jonathan Trott