Archive · 31 May 2025
Afghan Women's Cricket: From Suppression to New Beginnings
After the Taliban took over Afghanistan, women faced restrictions, including in sports.
Many female cricketers, like Firooza Amiri, fled to Australia and found a safe space.
In Australia, they played their first official match, showing resilience.
Cricket Australia and the ICC are helping them continue their sport.
Firooza hopes to inspire other Afghan girls and wants support from the men's cricket team.
Afghan women's cricket saw a setback in 2021 when the Taliban restricted women's sports.
Many Afghan women cricketers fled to Australia and found support, playing club cricket.
In January 2025, an Afghanistan Women's XI played their first match in Australia.
Cricket Australia and the ICC are supporting the development of Afghan women's cricket.
Firooza Amiri is advocating for women's cricket and urges support from the men's team.
- Who
- Afghan women cricketers, particularly those who fled to Australia, along with supporters such as Cricket Australia and the ICC.
- What
- Afghan women cricketers are finding new opportunities to play and develop their sport, despite facing adversity.
- When
- The Taliban's restrictions began in 2021, with recent matches and support beginning in 2025.
- Where
- Afghanistan (formerly), Australia (current)
- Why
- The Taliban's restrictions forced women to stop playing cricket, but they are now finding new opportunities.
Taliban's Stance
Amiri and Supporters' Stance
Women's Role
Taliban's Stance
Restrictions on women's activities including sports.
Amiri and Supporters' Stance
Empowering women to lead and succeed in sports and other fields.
- Key Figure
- Firooza Amiri
- Location of First Match in Australia
- Melbourne
- Date of First Match
- January 30, 2025
- Organization Supporting
- Cricket Australia, ICC
- Sport
- Cricket