More than 20 members of the former Afghanistan women's national cricket team have found refuge in Australia following the return of the Taliban to power in 2021. This significant change in leadership has resulted in the effective outlawing of female participation in sports across Afghanistan, forcing these athletes to flee their homeland for safety and the opportunity to continue their passion for cricket.
In a show of solidarity and support, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has made an initial donation of £100,000 to the newly established Global Refugee Cricket Fund. This fund was initiated by the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) and its charitable foundation to provide resources for exiled Afghan women cricketers now residing in Australia. The financial contribution aims to support the newly launched program called Pitch Our Future, which focuses on the development and wellbeing of these athletes.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has also stepped forward, agreeing to participate in a steering group that will ensure a sustained and structured approach to supporting the Afghanistan women's team. This collaboration reinforces the global cricket community's commitment to empowering female cricketers who have faced unprecedented challenges due to their gender.
Recently, the Afghanistan Women's XI played an exhibition match in Melbourne, marking their first collective game since escaping Afghanistan. This match not only showcased their resilience but also highlighted their determination to reclaim their place in the sport after enduring significant hardships. The players previously had been granted professional contracts by the Afghanistan Cricket Board in 2020, but with the Taliban's return, they could no longer play or train safely in their home country.
The ICC's involvement has been pivotal since the team sought permission to play as a refugee team. This approval was crucial, allowing them to continue pursuing their cricketing aspirations despite their displacement. The Global Refugee Cricket Fund aims to provide these athletes with both financial support and a platform to showcase their talent, fostering an environment where they can thrive away from home.
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