Afghanistan cricket captain Hashmatullah Shahidi has voiced his support for the right of Afghan women to play cricket, while acknowledging that the team cannot influence broader political issues.
This statement comes as Afghanistan prepares to face England in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, amidst ongoing controversy surrounding the Taliban government’s restrictions on women’s participation in sports.
Shahidi’s Statement
Speaking ahead of the crucial match against England, Shahidi emphasized that as athletes, they focus on what happens “inside the ground.”
He stated, “Everyone likes to see everyone play,” but noted that political matters are beyond their control.
Shahidi’s comments align with those of other prominent Afghan cricketers, such as Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi, who have also expressed support for women’s rights in Afghanistan.
Background and Controversy
The issue of women’s cricket in Afghanistan has been thrust into the spotlight due to the Taliban’s strict policies against female participation in sports.
Since the Taliban regained power in 2021, women have been effectively banned from playing sports, including cricket.
This has led to widespread criticism and calls for boycotts from international cricketing bodies and governments.
International Reaction
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) faced pressure from over 160 British politicians to boycott the match against Afghanistan due to the Taliban’s stance on women’s rights.
However, the ECB ultimately decided to proceed with the fixture, with England captain Jos Buttler expressing sympathy for the plight of Afghan women while emphasizing the power of sport to unite people.
Afghanistan’s Position
Shahidi’s comments reflect the delicate balance Afghan cricketers must navigate. While they support women’s rights, they are also mindful of their role as athletes and the limitations of their influence on broader societal issues.
The ICC has allowed the Afghan men’s team to participate in international competitions despite the absence of a women’s team, hoping that cricket can be a catalyst for change within the country.
