The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) they are facing a lot of pressure from politicians to boycott their upcoming shows Afghanistan to ICC Champions Trophy 2025. More than 160 politicians have written to the ECB asking for action against the Taliban regime's crackdown on women's rights in Afghanistan.
Politicians' letter to the ECB
The letter highlights the Taliban's ban on women's sports, forcing Afghanistan's women's cricket team to flee and flee abroad.
“We are urging the players and officials of the England men's team to speak out against the abuse of Afghan women and girls under the Taliban regime. We are also urging the ECB to consider boycotting the upcoming matches against Afghanistan… We must stand up against discrimination and we are calling on the ECB to deliver a strong message of solidarity and hope to Afghan women and girls that their plight has not been ignored,” the letter from the politician read.
The ECB, while acknowledging the serious human rights crisis in Afghanistan, said it was concerned about the consequences of unilateral neglect.
The ECB's response to calls for an end to the Afghan conflict
The ICC Statute mandates that all states participate in ICC proceedings. A strike would result in points being deducted and jeopardize England's chances of winning the tournament.
“The ECB strongly condemns the treatment of women and girls in Afghanistan under the rule of the Taliban. The ICC Constitution mandates that all member countries commit to the growth and development of women's cricket. In line with this commitment, the ECB has maintained its decision not to host two international cricket matches against and Afghanistan,” Richard Gould, head of the ECB Richard Gould he said in response to the politician's letter.
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“Although there has been no consensus on international action at the ICC, the ECB will continue to promote this. A coordinated, widespread approach to the ICC would be more effective than dealing with individual members.”
“We accept and respect different views on international issues. We understand the concerns of those who believe that boycotting men's cricket could unwittingly support the Taliban's efforts to suppress freedom and alienate the Afghan people. It is important to recognize the importance of cricket as a source of hope and optimism for many Afghans, including those displaced in the country. “
“The ECB is committed to finding a solution that protects the rights of women and girls in Afghanistan and takes into account the impact on the people of Afghanistan. We will continue to engage in constructive discussions with the UK Government, other stakeholders, the ICC, and other international cricket bodies to explore all possible ways to let there be a great change,” he added.