The Kabul Tribune (KT) — ABC reported that Afghanistan Women’s XI are set to tour England in a bid for international recognition, combining a cricket series with an advocacy campaign five years after players fled the country following the Taliban’s return to power in 2021.
Players, now based in countries including Australia and
Canada, say the tour carries a clear message: recognition by the International
Cricket Council (ICC).
“The ICC has always said women are equal to men. We have
heard that a lot,” Canberra-based player Benafsha Hashimi said. “If they
recognize us, it will bring hope and energy to girls living inside
Afghanistan.”
The team will play matches alongside the Women’s T20 World
Cup schedule in June and July, though not as part of the official tournament.
The Taliban-controlled Afghanistan Cricket Board does not recognize the women’s
team, preventing the ICC from sanctioning their participation in official
competitions.
Since returning to power, the Taliban have imposed sweeping
restrictions on women’s education, employment and freedoms, a situation widely
criticized by international human rights groups.
Team manager Emma Staples said the England tour was
strategically timed to coincide with both the World Cup and the ICC’s annual
conference in Scotland, where discussions on the team’s future recognition are
expected.
“The ICC has a real opportunity to act with courage, set
aside politics, and invest in these young women,” Staples said.
Some players have called for alternative solutions,
including the creation of a refugee team similar to those competing under the
International Olympic Committee flag.
The Afghanistan Women’s XI first played together in January
2025 in an exhibition match in Melbourne, drawing international attention and
support. The ICC later launched an Afghanistan women’s cricket initiative,
providing financial support and development programs in partnership with
cricket boards from Australia, England and India.
The initiative has enabled international exposure, including
the England tour and participation in global events. Matches in England are
scheduled at venues including Wormsley Cricket Ground and Cambridge University.
Funding for the program is set to end in August, with its
future to be discussed at the ICC conference in July. Advocates are calling for
long-term investment and pathways toward official recognition.
Players say their campaign represents more than sport.
“This team is a light,” Canada-based player Roya Samim said.
“It can either be shut down or made brighter — for the girls in Afghanistan who
are still living in darkness.”
Many players fled Afghanistan in 2021, some abandoning or
destroying their cricket equipment as they escaped. Despite the challenges, they
continue to speak out and push for inclusion in international sport.
“I will not take permission to play cricket from the
Taliban,” Samim said.
