ICC Introduces New Guidelines for Women Cricketers Post-Pregnancy

The International Cricket Council has unveiled a groundbreaking framework to assist women cricketers in resuming their careers after childbirth. Led by Dr. Philippa Inge, the guidelines focus on providing essential support, including flexible training environments and medical assistance. The ICC aims to ensure that motherhood does not hinder a player's professional journey, encouraging member nations to adopt these adaptable measures. Key recommendations include appointing a case manager and establishing a comprehensive support system for players. This initiative marks a significant step towards promoting the health and well-being of women in cricket.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 22, 2026, 16:43 IST

New Framework for Women Cricketers

In a significant development, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has launched a comprehensive framework aimed at supporting women cricketers in resuming their careers after childbirth. These guidelines outline the necessary steps for players to take during and following pregnancy to facilitate their return to professional cricket. Dr. Philippa Inge, a member of the ICC Medical Advisory Committee and the team doctor for Australia, spearheaded the creation of these guidelines. The ICC emphasizes that these measures are part of its broader commitment to the health and well-being of players, as well as the advancement of women's cricket.

The ICC highlighted that Inge played a crucial role in identifying practical support measures, which include flexible training arrangements, ongoing access to facilities, childcare guidance, designated areas for feeding or caring for infants at venues, and travel assistance when feasible. “The ICC’s Return to Play Post-Pregnancy Guidelines aim to demonstrate that motherhood does not signify the end of a cricket career. Our goal with this policy is to empower member nations to support their players in returning to the sport,” Inge stated. She acknowledged that many member countries have not previously had such frameworks in place, and the intention is to make these guidelines adaptable to the unique circumstances of each member.

Key Recommendations of the Guidelines

What The Guidelines State?

The guidelines stipulate that each member board should designate a case manager to serve as the primary contact point. Typically, this role is filled by a doctor or physiotherapist. All communications should prioritize the player’s needs, ensuring flexibility with a focus on the mother and child during decision-making processes. Additionally, the member board is required to establish a support network for the player, which should include medical professionals, physiotherapists, strength and conditioning coaches, psychologists, dieticians, coaches, and family support systems.

The ICC also recommends that a meeting led by the case manager take place when the player announces her pregnancy, before the birth, six to eight weeks postpartum, and then every four weeks thereafter. Furthermore, the guidelines suggest that players should stop competing at the conclusion of their first trimester. The return to play (RTP) protocols are structured around a six-stage process: Ready, Review, Restore, Recondition, Return, and Refine.