The upcoming Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 in Guwahati is set to make headlines not only for the cricketing action but also for a powerful moment of resilience and symbolism. Even though Afghanistan’s women cricketers are not officially recognized by their home country, they will be present at the tournament — thanks to a special initiative by the International Cricket Council (ICC).
ICC’s Initiative to Support Afghan Women Cricketers
According to a report from ESPNcricinfo, the ICC took a conscious decision during its annual conference in July to include Afghanistan’s exiled women cricketers in the event. The idea was to allow them to not only attend some of the World Cup matches but also participate in a training camp and play practice games against Indian domestic teams.
Initially, the plan was for the women to be hosted in Bengaluru, which was scheduled to host the opening match of the tournament. However, the venue for the inaugural match between India and Sri Lanka was shifted to Guwahati, Assam. The ICC’s support remains unchanged, and the exiled players — now living in Australia — are expected to arrive in time for the opener.
Confusion Around Local Arrangements
Despite the ICC’s planning, there seems to be a lack of clarity on the ground. Speaking to the media, Assam Cricket Association (ACA) President Taranga Gogoi stated that he was unaware of the full details surrounding the visit of the Afghan women cricketers.
“[BCCI secretary] Devajit Saikia knows exactly what the details are. He will guide us, and we are awaiting more details. The Afghanistan players will be here tomorrow, and we will make arrangements for that,” Gogoi said.
This indicates that while the ICC has laid the groundwork, local coordination is still in progress.
The Harsh Reality Behind Their Exile
Since the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan in 2021, women have been systematically excluded from public life — including sports. Women’s sports teams have been disbanded, and athletes have faced threats, restrictions, and erasure from national recognition.
In the face of this oppression, many Afghan sportswomen, including national team cricketers, fled the country. Most of them sought asylum in Australia, where they continue to train and represent a silenced generation of Afghan women.
Their attendance at the Women’s ODI World Cup isn’t just symbolic; it’s a statement — a reminder of the resilience of athletes who refuse to be erased.
