Afghanistan’s women’s cricket apartheid is a complex and multifaceted issue that highlights the intersection of sports and politics
In the heart of Kabul, where the dust of ancient history mingles with the hopes of a new generation, cricket has long been a beacon of unity and resilience.
Afghanistan’s cricket team has symbolised national pride from refugee camps to international arenas. Yet, beneath the surface of this inspiring journey lies a darker reality — one that has cast a shadow over the sport and its future. This is the story of Afghanistan’s women’s cricket apartheid, a tale of exclusion, defiance, and the unyielding spirit of those who dare to dream.
Afghanistan’s women’s cricket team had been progressing steadily before the Taliban’s return to power in 2021. The team had been developing, with players honing their skills and gaining international recognition. However, the Taliban’s strict policies have effectively outlawed women’s cricket, forcing many players to flee the country. This has led to what many are calling a “cricket apartheid,” drawing parallels to South Africa’s exclusion from international cricket during the apartheid era.
The situation has sparked outrage and calls for boycotts from various quarters. In January 2025, former international taekwondo medallist Roman Abasy called for Australia and England to boycott their matches against Afghanistan in the ICC Champions Trophy. Over 160 British politicians signed a letter urging the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) to refuse to play Afghanistan in the tournament. However, the ECB ultimately decided to play the match, arguing that a coordinated international response would be more effective than unilateral action.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has come under fire for handling the situation. Despite the Taliban’s blatant disregard for women’s rights, Afghanistan remains a full member of the ICC, with full funding. Human rights organisations like Amnesty International have called on the ICC to support the exiled Afghanistan women’s cricket team more. The ICC has been criticised for not taking stronger measures to address the Taliban’s policies, such as suspending Afghanistan’s membership or imposing sanctions.
Many of Afghanistan’s female cricketers were forced to flee the country after the Taliban raided the homes of female athletes. Most now reside in Australia, where they have been granted emergency visas. In January 2025, an Afghan Women’s XI played a charity match in Australia, marking their first public appearance since fleeing the country. This event highlighted the plight of Afghan women and the need for international support.
The Afghanistan men’s cricket team has continued to achieve remarkable success on the international stage, with several notable milestones in 2024. However, the team has faced criticism for not speaking out against the Taliban’s policies. Captain Hashmatullah Shahidi acknowledged the political complexities beyond their control, emphasising the team’s focus on playing cricket. Afghanistan’s coach, Jonathan Trott, expressed concern about the gender apartheid but remained optimistic that the team could bring change.
Afghanistan’s women’s cricket apartheid is a complex and multifaceted issue that highlights the intersection of sports and politics. While the men’s team continues to achieve remarkable success, the ban on women’s cricket is a stark reminder of the Taliban’s oppressive policies. The international cricket community must take a stronger stance against these violations, using its influence to promote gender equality and human rights. Until the Taliban changes its policies, the true potential of Afghan cricket will remain unfulfilled, and the sport will continue to be marred by the shadow of apartheid.
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