The English Cricket Board (ECB) has announced a change in its regulation regarding eligibility of transgender players in women’s cricket. The ECB has made it clear that only those whose biological sex is female will be eligible to participate in women’s and girls’ cricket matches. Transgender women and girls can continue playing in open and mixed cricket.
ECB’s regulations for recreational cricket have always aimed at ensuring that cricket remains as inclusive a sport as possible. Some of those regulations included measures to manage disparities, irrespective of someone’s gender, and safeguard the enjoyment of all players. After the new advice given by the Supreme court ruling, ECB believes that the changes announced today were necessary.
ECB also acknowledges that the decision taken today will have a significant impact on transgender women and girls. ECB is also trying hard to work with recreational boards to support people impacted by this change in the regulations. ECB also awaits updated guidance from the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) to study the above matter thoroughly.
ECB also believes that abuse and discrimination has no place in this beautiful sport, and they are committed to ensure that cricket is played in a spirit of respect and inclusivity.
