In a landmark event, the Afghanistan women's cricket team played their first match since fleeing their homeland following the Taliban's takeover three years ago. The team, consisting of 22 promising cricketers now residing in Melbourne and Canberra, faced an invitational team from Cricket Without Borders in a charity match at Melbourne's iconic Junction Oval. This match marks not only a return to the sport for these athletes but also a significant stand for women's rights and opportunities in cricket.
The Afghanistan Cricket Board had initially offered professional contracts to 25 women cricketers in November 2020, but the Taliban's rise to power abruptly halted their aspirations. Many female athletes fled Afghanistan as the Taliban declared an end to women's cricket in August 2021. Now settled in Australia, the team is actively lobbying the International Cricket Council (ICC) for official recognition as a refugee team. Despite their efforts, the ICC has yet to respond to their calls for action.
“A profound sadness remains that we, as women, cannot represent our country like the male cricketers,” – Afghan women cricketers (in a joint letter)
Cricket Australia has shown support for the Afghan women's side, vowing to "advocate" for them at the highest levels. This backing was evident in the recent match, which Cricket Australia helped facilitate. Team captain Nahida Sapan expressed hope that this game would initiate "a movement for change," emphasizing the importance of education and sports opportunities for Afghan women.
“Together, we’re building not just a team, we’re building a movement for change and promise,” – Nahida Sapan
Diana Barakzai, a pioneer who founded Afghanistan's first women's cricket program nearly two decades ago, described the game as an "amazing moment." Barakzai, who also fled Afghanistan, reflected on the dire situation back home and highlighted the contrast with her life in Australia.
“I can live freely in Australia and live my life the way I want. But back home in Afghanistan… I can only say it is very heartbreaking and very hard to live in that situation.” – Diana Barakzai
The match at Junction Oval, a ground where cricket legend Shane Warne once played, served as more than just a sporting event. It symbolized resilience and hope for a future where Afghan women can represent their country under one banner.
“The creation of this team will allow all Afghan women who want to represent their country to come together under one banner.” – Afghan women cricketers (in a joint letter)
