ECB Confirms England Will Play Afghanistan in Champions Trophy…

The ECB has decided to play the Champions Trophy match against Afghanistan, despite calls for a boycott due to women’s rights abuses by the Taliban. ECB Chair Richard Thompson emphasized the importance of a coordinated international response over unilateral actions. The board has also contributed funds to support displaced Afghan women cricketers and is calling for further ICC support.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has confirmed that England will proceed with their Champions Trophy match against Afghanistan on February 26, despite prior calls to boycott the game due to the Taliban’s repression of women’s rights. ECB Chair, Richard Thompson, emphasized discussions with government officials, the International Cricket Council (ICC), and players led to this decision. He asserted that a collective international response from the cricketing community is more effective than unilateral actions.

Thompson pointed out the significance of cricket to many ordinary Afghans, stating, “We have also heard that for many ordinary Afghans, watching their cricket team is one of the few remaining sources of enjoyment.” The Taliban’s assertion of adhering to women’s rights according to their interpretation of Islamic law remains a contentious issue, drawing significant attention from lawmakers and sports officials alike.

Amid these discussions, initiatives such as the establishment of a refugee fund for displaced women cricketers have emerged. The ECB has donated £100,000 towards this cause. Thompson called for the ICC to not only support Afghanistan’s women cricket players but also to recognize a refugee team, while advocating for women’s involvement in various non-playing roles in cricket. As he stated, “What is happening in Afghanistan is nothing short of gender apartheid.”

The context surrounding this decision involves ongoing discussions about the impact of the Taliban’s regime on women’s rights in Afghanistan. Following the Taliban’s takeover in August 2021, the situation for women, including those in sports, deteriorated significantly. Cricket has been a vital source of pride and joy for many Afghans, and the international cricket community is grappling with how to respond to the Taliban government while supporting those affected, particularly women and girls who are being denied sporting opportunities.

In summary, the ECB will not boycott the Champions Trophy match against Afghanistan, emphasizing the need for a coordinated global response to advocate for women’s rights in the country. This controversial decision underscores the balance between sporting traditions and pressing humanitarian issues, while efforts to support displaced Afghan women cricketers are ongoing. The ECB continues to push for actions that uplift female players and address their plight effectively.

Original Source: dunyanews.tv