The International Cricket Council (ICC) faces mounting pressure as calls to boycott Afghanistan intensify ahead of the Champions Trophy. The tournament, hosted by Pakistan from February 19 to March 9, has become a flashpoint for human rights advocates following Afghanistan's exclusion of women from sports. Despite ICC regulations mandating full membership countries to support women's cricket teams and pathways, Afghanistan's men's team continues to participate in global tournaments without sanctions.
South Africa's sports minister, Gayton McKenzie, and Cricket South Africa (CSA) have voiced their support for boycotting matches against Afghanistan. McKenzie labeled the suppression of women's rights "abhorrent," while CSA emphasized that women's cricket deserves "equal recognition and resources." The CSA has received backing from former MP Lord Peter Hain and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), which has also advocated for a boycott.
"We are of the view that a more unified and collective approach from all ICC members will be more impactful." – Rihan Richards, CSA president
Afghanistan's female cricketers fled the country after the Taliban regained power in 2021, effectively outlawing women's participation in sports. Despite this, South Africa is scheduled to face Afghanistan on February 21 in Karachi. The match marks the opening game in Group B for both teams, also featuring Australia and England. Group A includes Pakistan, India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh.
"CSA is committed and will continue to engage in constructive dialogue with the ICC and other members to find a solution that upholds women's cricket in Afghanistan and influence meaningful change in that country." – Rihan Richards, CSA president
The ECB has joined CSA in advocating for collective action. Over 160 UK politicians signed a letter urging England to refuse to play against Afghanistan. The letter, penned by Labour MP Tonia Antoniazzi and supported by political figures like Nigel Farage and Jeremy Corbyn, highlights growing international concern.
"Cricket South Africa, the federations of other countries and the ICC will have to think carefully about the message the sport of cricket wishes to send the world, and especially the women in sports." – Gayton McKenzie, South Africa sports minister
"It is not for me as the sports minister to make the final decision on whether South Africa should honour cricketing fixtures against Afghanistan. If it was my decision, then it certainly would not happen." – Gayton McKenzie, South Africa sports minister
As discussions continue, CSA has declared that any position on Afghanistan must align with ICC guidelines for international tournaments.
"As the Champions Trophy is an ICC event, the position on Afghanistan must be guided by the world body in accordance with international tournament participation requirements and regulations." – CSA
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