ICC announces initiative to support displaced Afghan women cricketers

The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Sunday announced the creation of a task force to support displaced Afghan women cricketers.

The initiative will see the setting-up of a "dedicated fund to provide direct monetary assistance, ensuring these cricketers have the resources they need" to continue playing, according to the ICC.

It will also feature a training programme, providing "advanced coaching, world-class facilities, and tailored mentorship to help them reach their full potential".

"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," ICC Chairman Jay Shah said in a press release.

"In collaboration with our valued partners, we are proud to launch this task force and support fund, complemented by a comprehensive high-performance programme, to ensure displaced Afghan women cricketers can continue their journey in the sport."

The initiative will be a joint venture with the Board of Control for Cricket in India, the England and Wales Cricket Board and Cricket Australia.

Afghanistan had 25 contracted women cricketers in 2020, most of whom have resettled in Australia with humanitarian visas due to restrictions at home under the hardline Taliban government.

Australia and England have ruled out bilateral cricket with Afghanistan over the women's rights issue and play them only in ICC events like World Cups and Champions Trophy.