Australia Postpones Afghan T20 Series once again. The three-match T20 series, planned for August, has been put on hold due to the worsening conditions for women and girls under Taliban rule in Afghanistan.

Australia Postpones Afghan T20 Series

This is the third time CA has taken a stand against playing Afghanistan since the Taliban’s takeover in 2021. The Taliban regime has placed severe restrictions on female participation in sports, leading to widespread condemnation from bodies like CA.

A one-off Test match slated for Hobart in November 2021 and a three-match ODI series in the UAE (scheduled for March 2023) were previously called off by CA. At the time of the ODI cancellation, CA held out hope for future matches, provided conditions for women and girls in Afghanistan improved.

Australian Government and Cricket Australia’s Stance

Cricket Australia’s latest decision cites advice from the Australian government confirming a deterioration in conditions for women and girls. In their statement, they reaffirmed their commitment to supporting women’s and girls’ participation in cricket globally and pledged to work with relevant stakeholders to facilitate a potential resumption of matches in the future.

ICC Remains Supportive

The International Cricket Council (ICC), however, maintains its support for Afghanistan as a full member nation. ICC CEO Geoff Allardice contends that the ICC must assist Afghanistan in navigating the complexities of operating within their nation’s laws.

Afghan Players React

Former Afghan women’s cricketers who fled to Australia have spoken out in support of CA’s stance. Star Afghan player Rashid Khan previously threatened to abandon the Big Bash League (BBL) in protest of the ODI series cancellation, though he later walked back that statement.

Despite the controversy, Australia and Afghanistan continue to compete in ICC-sanctioned tournaments.

Ireland Tour Uncertain

In related news, financial and logistical concerns may lead to the postponement of a planned series between Australia and Ireland, set for August and September of this year.