ICC Supports Afghan Refugee Women Cricketers with Development Pathway Programme

The ICC Board has reaffirmed its commitment to Afghan refugee women cricketers by endorsing the Development Pathway Programme. This initiative aims to create a roadmap for the Afghan women's team to participate in ICC qualification pathways by 2030. With the inclusion of key figures in the Special Task Force, the programme focuses on providing structured coaching and competitive opportunities. Afghan cricketers express gratitude for the support, highlighting the positive impact on their development and team unity. The initiative represents a significant step towards ensuring equal opportunities for these talented athletes, inspiring women and girls globally.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 15, 2026, 23:37 IST

ICC's Commitment to Afghan Refugee Women Cricketers

Dubai [UAE], July 15: During its annual Conference held in Edinburgh, the International Cricket Council (ICC) Board has reaffirmed its support for the Development Pathway Programme aimed at Afghan refugee women cricketers.

The Board has also restructured the Special Taskforce, assigning it the crucial task of creating a roadmap that will enable the Afghan refugee women's team to engage in ICC qualification pathways by the year 2030.

Additionally, the ICC Board has welcomed Dr. Ros Rivaz, its Independent Director, and Sarah Keane, a member of the ICC Chief Executives’ Committee, to the Special Task Force, as stated in a press release.

They will collaborate with existing members from the BCCI, Cricket Australia, and the England & Wales Cricket Board to oversee the programme, focusing on enhancing exposure, representation, and competitive standards for women in cricket.

Dr. Ros Rivaz expressed his honor in joining the ICC Special Task Force, emphasizing the importance of this initiative.

He stated, “The Task Force is tasked with creating a sustainable roadmap that supports the growth of Afghan refugee women cricketers through structured coaching, competitive opportunities, and high-performance pathways. This initiative showcases the ICC’s dedication to promoting opportunities through cricket, and I am eager to work with my fellow Task Force members and partners to ensure its successful implementation.”

Nahida Sapan, an Afghan refugee cricketer, shared that the programme has significantly impacted their lives, allowing them to continue playing cricket and fostering team unity.

“It’s comforting to know that the ICC and the Task Force are committed to our long-term development. We value the acknowledgment that we deserve the same rights and opportunities as players from other nations,” she remarked.

Firooza Afghan, another Afghan refugee cricketer, noted that the past year’s opportunities to tour India and England have created unforgettable memories.

“Training with quality coaches in our home locations has greatly contributed to our progress. Having a long-term goal of participating in ICC qualification pathways motivates us, and we are determined to seize every opportunity,” she added.

Mel Jones, a former Australian international and co-founder of It’s Game On, highlighted the significance of ongoing support for these exceptional women, along with a clear pathway towards ICC qualification by 2030.

“This initiative sends a strong message that talent and determination deserve a chance. These players serve as role models, inspiring women and girls globally, and it’s thrilling to see a long-term plan that balances development with meaningful competition while honoring their unique journey. Their progress over the past year has been remarkable, and I am excited to see what this team will accomplish by 2030,” she stated.

The support will include ongoing access to cricket and strength & conditioning coaches, as well as physiotherapy in their home regions, with a gradual increase in game time planned. Players currently residing in Australia, England, and Canada will continue to integrate into their local cricket environments, providing them with training and playing opportunities.

Moreover, the programme will ensure that players have continued chances to train and compete as a group, similar to the tours to India and England in the past year. These collective playing opportunities will be developed gradually, with opposition selected strategically to aid their progression towards ICC qualification events by 2030.