ICC Forms Special Task Force to Support Displaced Afghan Women Cricketers

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In a significant move aimed at promoting inclusivity and resilience through sport, the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Sunday unveiled a new task force dedicated to assisting displaced Afghan women cricketers.

The initiative, backed by the BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India), England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), and Cricket Australia (CA), is designed to offer both athletic and personal development support.

At the heart of this programme is a newly established financial assistance fund, aimed at providing direct monetary support to Afghan women cricketers who have faced displacement. The ICC will also roll out a comprehensive high-performance framework, which includes top-tier coaching, access to international-standard facilities, and customized mentorship to aid in their professional growth.

ICC Chairman Jay Shah shared his thoughts on the initiative, stating,
"At the International Cricket Council, we are deeply committed to fostering inclusivity and ensuring every cricketer has the opportunity to shine, regardless of their circumstances. In collaboration with our valued partners, we are proud to launch this task force and support fund, complemented by a comprehensive high-performance programme, to ensure displaced Afghan women cricketers can continue their journey in the sport. This initiative reflects our steadfast dedication to cricket's global growth and its power to inspire unity, resilience, and hope."

The ICC envisions this initiative as a means not only to sustain the cricketing ambitions of Afghan women but also as a symbol of the sport's role in bringing people together, overcoming adversity, and providing hope.

In other developments, the ICC Board gave its nod to the audited financial statements of the ICC Group for the fiscal year ending in 2024.

Additionally, based on the recommendations from the Chief Executives Committee, several key appointments were confirmed:

Women's Cricket Committee: Catherine Campbell was re-appointed, while Avril Fahey and Pholetsi Moseki were inducted as new members.

Men's Cricket Committee: Sourav Ganguly was re-appointed as Chair. Other new appointments include Hamid Hassan, Desmond Haynes, Temba Bavuma, VVS Laxman (re-appointed), and Jonathan Trott.

This series of developments signals the ICC's continued focus on global expansion, equity, and sustainable governance in cricket.