Cricket Australia (CA) has reaffirmed its decision not to engage in bilateral cricket with Afghanistan due to the Taliban government's stance on women's rights.
Nick Hockley, CA's chief executive, stated that there has been ongoing dialogue with the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) regarding the issue. He expressed hope that the two sides might resume playing against each other "sometime in the future."
Australia has withdrawn from three bilateral series against Afghanistan, citing a "marked deterioration in human rights for women and girls," but has continued to face Afghanistan in ICC events. Following Afghanistan's historic victory over Australia in the T20 World Cup last month, Usman Khawaja remarked that CA's stance was "a little bit hypocritical."
Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan also commented on the situation post-match, expressing a desire to find a solution. Hockley acknowledged Afghanistan's impressive performance and passionate play, but explained that Australia had extensively consulted with stakeholders, including the government, before deciding to postpone the series on human-rights grounds.
Hockley emphasised that CA maintains a close relationship with the ACB and aims to see cricket flourish globally for both men and women. He expressed hope for progress and continued discussions with the ACB, aiming to resume bilateral cricket in the future.
Seventeen Afghanistan women players, contracted by the ACB in 2020 before the Taliban takeover, have written to the ICC seeking help to establish a refugee team in Australia. They wish to be administered by the East Asian Cricket office in Australia, not under the ACB banner or as the Afghanistan national team.
Hockley noted that the issue is for the ICC to consider and mentioned upcoming meetings in Colombo, where it would likely be discussed. He acknowledged that the Afghan women in Australia are engaged with the cricket community and receiving substantial support, although CA is not directly involved.
In Melbourne, exiled Afghanistan women footballers are being supported by A-League club Melbourne Victory, playing in Football Victoria's third division and participating in the Hope Cup while awaiting FIFA recognition.
When asked about integrating Afghanistan women cricketers into Australia's club system, Hockley said that several players are already playing for local clubs. He emphasised that the community is supportive, and cricket is an excellent way for newcomers to integrate and build relationships.
Hockley also mentioned that CA is looking forward to hosting Bangladesh's men's team in the next FTP cycle. Bangladesh last played Tests in Australia in July 2003 and a bilateral ODI series in August-September 2008.
Hockley confirmed that Bangladesh is part of the upcoming FTP cycle and expressed enthusiasm about hosting them. He highlighted the recent successful women's tour to Bangladesh ahead of the women's T20 World Cup and appreciated the hospitality received.
Regarding a men's tour, Hockley noted that it is not currently part of the FTP over the next few years but assured that CA would continue to work with all members, including the Bangladesh Cricket Board, to explore opportunities for future tours.