Afghanistan women cricketers will reunite on the field for the first time in over three years. On January 30, 2025, they’ll play an exhibition match in Australia, marking a significant moment for women’s cricket. Hosted by Cricket Australia, this historic game at Melbourne’s Junction Oval will be played on the eve of the only women’s Ashes test and will see an Afghanistan Women’s XI take on a Cricket Without Borders XI. It’s more than just a match—it’s a statement of resilience, courage, and the fight for Afghan women’s rights.
Afghanistan Women Cricketers: A Symbol of Resilience and Hope
Since fleeing Afghanistan after the Taliban’s takeover in 2021, Afghanistan women cricketers have found refuge in Australia. Despite being banned from playing in their homeland, they’ve continued competing in local club cricket. Captain Nahida Sapan and senior player Firooza Amiri are grateful for the opportunities they’ve received and have thanked Cricket Australia and the Australian government for standing by them. “We lost everything back home, yet here we are, together again,” Amiri shared. Sapan called the match more than just a game—it’s a movement for change.
Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley praised the team’s perseverance. Seeing the Afghanistan women cricketers wear their team shirts again was an emotional moment, he said. Their determination reflects the spirit of Cricket Without Borders, proving that the game can transcend barriers. CA has pledged to keep pushing for Afghan women’s inclusion in cricket, advocating at the ICC level.
Women in Afghanistan are banned from playing sports under the Taliban rule. The cricketing world has condemned this, yet Afghanistan retains its ICC full-member status. While Australia and England refuse bilateral matches against the men’s team in protest, they still face them in ICC tournaments.
This match is about hope. Cricket Without Borders and Cricket Australia believe it can inspire real change, paving the way for a future where Afghan women can reclaim their place in the sport.
