The International Cricket Council (ICC) held its annual conference in Singapore on Sunday, announcing several significant decisions. Key outcomes included an update on the Afghanistan women’s cricket initiative, the selection of host venues for the finals of the next three ICC World Test Championships, a review of the status of USA Cricket, and the addition of two new member nations.
As part of the ICC’s efforts to support displaced Afghan women cricketers, these players will be offered meaningful engagement opportunities at ICC events, including the 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup and next year’s T20 World Cup in England, along with access to high-performance programs and domestic competitions.
The initiative is being driven by a collaborative effort led by the ICC under the oversight of Deputy Chair Mr. Imran Khwaja, in partnership with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), and Cricket Australia (CA).
Recently, former Australian player Mel Jones was honoured with the prestigious 2025 Spirit of Cricket Award by the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) in recognition of her extraordinary efforts to relocate and support the Afghanistan women’s cricket team.
When asked about the future of Afghan women cricketers, she responded that their leaders should recognise the team’s existence and develop a plan to support their participation in cricket at the club and state levels, as well as in leagues, while representing Afghanistan. She emphasised that the women aspire to compete under their national flag and in their team’s colours, just like the men’s team, with the opportunity to continue doing so.
The ICC’s decision to support displaced Afghan women cricketers by providing meaningful engagement opportunities at ICC events marks a significant and positive step forward. This initiative offers a crucial platform for these relocated athletes, enabling them to continue their cricketing journey and represent their aspirations on an international stage.
