ECB announces historic tour for Afghan women’s refugee cricket team
The England and Wales Cricket Board has confirmed the Afghanistan women’s refugee side will tour in June, marking a significant policy shift following years of exclusion under the Taliban regime.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has announced that the Afghanistan women’s refugee cricket team will tour England in June 2026, playing Twenty20 matches and attending the Women’s T20 World Cup final at Lord’s on 5 July. The ECB described the tour as a landmark moment in a five-year journey to rebuild the players' careers, framing the initiative as a critical step for inclusion and the protection of women’s participation in sport.
The squad comprises players who were previously contracted to the Afghanistan Cricket Board but left the country after being systematically excluded from sport and public life following the Taliban’s return to power five years ago. The tour, which commences on 22 June, includes competitive fixtures and training opportunities, providing a platform for the athletes to re-engage with international cricket after years of displacement.
Most of the players are currently resettled in Australia, where they have continued to play in domestic competitions. However, despite International Cricket Council (ICC) regulations requiring all test-playing members to support men’s and women’s national teams, the athletes have been unable to participate in international cricket while based in Australia. The women have repeatedly requested the ICC to reform its regulations to allow them to compete as a refugee team.
The reintegration process has been supported by the consultancy firm “It’s Game On,” co-founded by former Australian international Mel Jones. Jones, who featured in the ECB’s announcement, highlighted the players’ extraordinary courage and commitment, stating they deserve recognition as part of the global cricket community. She called for sustained and meaningful action beyond this year to ensure long-term support for the athletes.
Clare Connor, the ECB’s deputy chief executive, emphasised that cricket has a responsibility to stand for inclusion and opportunity. “We are proud to be hosting this tour,” Connor said, noting that the board is committed to supporting the players in deepening their connection to the game. The ECB stated that the tour carries significant cultural and sporting importance, serving as a statement of values for the sport in the United Kingdom.
