In a rare and significant public stance, Afghanistan’s T20 captain Rashid Khan has voiced his support for the creation of a national women’s cricket team. Speaking ahead of Afghanistan’s T20 World Cup 2026 opener against New Zealand in Chennai on February 10, Rashid acknowledged that while players have limited control over governance, the inclusion of a women’s side is a fundamental expectation for any Full Member nation.
Rashid’s comments come at a time of increased global scrutiny over Afghanistan’s status in the ICC. While the men’s team has reached historic heights—including a semi-final berth in the 2024 World Cup—the women’s game has been effectively dismantled within the country since 2021.
Key Highlights from Rashid’s Statement
- Full Membership Criteria: Rashid noted, “Definitely, I feel like that’s the kind of criteria for, I think, being a Full Member.” This refers to the ICC requirement that all Full Members must maintain both men’s and women’s national structures.
- Institutional Responsibility: He clarified that the ultimate decision-making power resides with the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB), stating, “Sometimes as a player, you don’t have much in the control… but yes, the support is always there.”
- National Pride: Rashid emphasized a desire to see anyone—regardless of gender—represent the Afghan flag on the global stage.
Reaction from Exiled Players
Rashid’s remarks have drawn a mixed reaction from the members of the original Afghanistan women’s team, many of whom are currently living and training in exile in Australia.
- Firooza Afghan’s Critique: Former national player Firooza Afghan (Amiri) responded on social media, arguing that symbolic support is no longer enough. She criticized the ICC for granting Full Membership in 2017 without ensuring a sustainable women’s program was in place, calling the current situation a “direct blow” to female athletes.
- Calls for Advocacy: Exiled players have previously urged male stars like Rashid and Mohammad Nabi to use their global influence to be a “voice for the girls” who have been barred from public life and sport.
The ICC Refugee Team Initiative
The ICC has recently taken steps to support Afghan women through a “Refugee Team” program. In collaboration with the BCCI, ECB, and Cricket Australia, the ICC has facilitated:
- Training Camps: Dedicated high-performance camps in Australia and India.
- Exhibition Matches: Opportunities for the exiled team to play against domestic sides in major cricket hubs.
- Presence at Global Events: The refugee team was invited to attend the opening of the 2025 Women’s World Cup as a gesture of solidarity.
