The plight of Afghan women cricketers has been a poignant narrative in the world of sports, especially following the Taliban’s takeover in Afghanistan. The situation worsened as the present 25 contracted cricketers of Afghanistan Cricket Board are living in exile since they took over.
However, with the announcement of formation of a dedicated force to support Afghan women cricketers, led by ICC have resurrected their hopes in this sport. Firooza Amiri spoke exclusively in an interview with Cricbuzz regarding their renewed hopes to play cricket again at the highest level. The formation of a dedicated task force by the International Cricket Council (ICC) marks a significant and hopeful turning point for Afghan women cricketers living in exile.
Speaking about the new initiative, Firooza added that this initiative is seen as a critical step towards acknowledging their challenges and supporting their aspirations in this game. Although details regarding the funding and specific support mechanisms are yet to be fully disclosed, the announcement of the task force has generated optimism among the displaced athletes.
Of particular importance is the inclusion of representatives from the affected players group and the advocacy organization Pitch Our Future, ensuring that the voices of the players are central to all decisions made.
She further stated, “Our goal is simple: we want to improve as cricketers and play at the highest level. With the combined support of the ICC and Pitch Our Future, we are hopeful that we’ll now receive the financial resources and coaching that we need to continue that journey. We are also thankful to everyone who has supported us over the past few years-especially the Australian cricket community, who helped us resettle and gave us opportunities to keep playing the game we love.”
Pitch Our Future has been a consistent ally in the journey of these cricketers, and there is a strong desire for continued collaboration between the organization and the ICC. This initiative highlights the recognition and support from international allies and gives them the strength to keep going and representing Afghan women everywhere.
Speaking about the foundation, Pitch Our Future, she briefed it as the official platform of the Afghanistan Women’s National Cricket Team in exile, playing a pivotal role in their continued journey as professional athletes and individuals rebuilding their lives. It was launched to generate global awareness and support, and it’s a central hub that shares detailed information about each player, including personal backgrounds, cricketing milestones, and aspirations for the future.
Pitch Our Future has been instrumental in mobilizing resources for the team’s development. The platform has been effective enough to meet essential needs such as training, coaching, facilities, equipment, and education. The platform has been a key advocacy component for international recognition of the team, ensuring that Afghan women cricketers are seen and heard as legitimate and talented athletes.
Speaking about her previous game on January 30 this year, she added, “The match on January 30 was more than just a game, it was the beginning of a new chapter for us here in Australia. After three long years of uncertainty, pain, and silence, stepping back onto the field with my teammates, wearing the Afghan colours was incredibly emotional. It was a moment filled with pride, relief, and deep gratitude.”
The match also reaffirmed the players connection to their homeland, showcasing that even in exile, their spirit and identity remain intact. The game was a collective statement to continue pushing forward, both for themselves and for every Afghan girl whose voice has been suppressed.
When asked about the possibility of competing in the Los Angeles Olympics, Firooza shared that, as of now, no official updates have been received regarding their participation. However, the team expressed strong readiness and enthusiasm.
In deep sorrow, she expressed her disappointment to stay in exile. They did not leave by choice, but were forced to abandon their country, families, and the roots of their dreams. Despite the pain, the players continue to represent Afghanistan with pride-through their cricket and through their resilience.
She communicated her journey, stating the journey has been anything but easy. Choosing cricket as a profession in Afghanistan, especially as women, involved navigating a minefield of cultural barriers, limited resources, lack of institutional support, and constant fear. Training often took place in secrecy, amid criticism. Yet, their passion for the game remained unshaken. Cricket offered them a sense of purpose, a strong identity, and a source of empowerment.
Among the 25 contracted Afghan women cricketers, 19 are currently based in Australia. According to Firooza, one of the team’s key players, she remains in regular contact with her teammates across the country, “We support each other both on and off the field, and we’re working together to rebuild our team and keep our cricket journey alive.”
Firooza also highlighted the lack of communication and support from the Afghanistan Cricket Board. Since their arrival in Australia, none of the players have had any contact with the board. She noted that the players are unsure that the board will support them in the future, especially considering the current political climate in Afghanistan.
Despite these uncertainties, most of the players based in Melbourne are actively participating in the Victorian Premier Cricket League, while those in Canberra have joined local premier leagues.
While concluding the interview, Firooza, expressed her gratitude to BCCI, ECB and CA for the support and their contribution, “We are incredibly grateful for the support we’ve already received. Cricket Australia (CA) has taken a real leadership role. Since we arrived, they’ve provided us with the support we needed both for our cricket and for building our lives here in Australia.”
(Quotes sourced from Cricbuzz)
