The South African Cricketers’ Association (SACA) has issued a statement calling for increased support for women’s cricket as South Africa’s men’s team prepares to play three ODIs against Afghanistan in the UAE. This series, which marks the first bilateral encounter between the two countries, is not part of the 2023-2027 Future Tours Programme (FTP) and has been added to provide South Africa with more competitive opportunities.
Afghanistan is currently the only ICC Full Member without a women’s team, largely due to the restrictive policies imposed on women under the Taliban government. SACA has expressed its support for Cricket South Africa’s (CSA) decision to include these fixtures but has also voiced concerns about the “deteriorating human rights for women under Taliban rule.”
Andrew Breetzke, SACA CEO and World Cricketers’ Association board member, emphasized that “World Cricketers’ Association and SACA do not condone any situation in which women’s players are excluded from competing in our sport.” He called on CSA to use its platform during this series to highlight the need for protecting and respecting women’s rights in Afghanistan, stating that every athlete should have the right to equality of opportunity in sports.
Cricket South Africa is expected to refrain from commenting on the statement. However, CSA, as an ICC member, has participated in discussions about Afghanistan’s situation, including discussions around potential solutions such as a refugee team based in Australia. The ICC has been hesitant to impose sanctions similar to the 1970 ban on South Africa due to apartheid, fearing that such actions might endanger lives in Afghanistan.
Australia has postponed two series against Afghanistan due to the current regime’s stance on women, but they continue to play against Afghanistan in ICC tournaments. South Africa’s white-ball coach, Rob Walter, noted that decisions about whether to play against Afghanistan are ultimately made by CSA’s leadership, not the coaching staff.
The ODI series between South Africa and Afghanistan will take place in Sharjah starting next Wednesday. Following this, South Africa will face Ireland in Abu Dhabi for two T20Is and three ODIs.
