The decision, ratified by the Cricket Scotland Board, follows a period of internal review and consultation. While the board remains committed to its international obligations, it has drawn a firm line regarding non-ICC events, stating that the suspension will remain in place until there is a material change in the circumstances surrounding women’s cricket and the broader
Policy Impact and Strategic Context
The governing body clarified that the new policy does not apply to matches played during ICC tournaments, where fixtures are governed by international competition regulations. Cricket Scotland emphasized that it will continue to fulfill its obligations in those specific settings. However, this stance extends to the denial of training facilities; the
This move aligns Cricket Scotland with similar actions taken by Cricket Australia and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). The decision was heavily influenced by one of Cricket Scotland’s core strategic priorities: the advancement and growth of women’s and girls’ cricket. Since the Taliban returned to power in 2021, women’s sports have effectively vanished in Afghanistan, alongside severe restrictions on education and employment for women and girls.
Operational Guidelines and Future Reviews
Regarding franchise cricket, Cricket Scotland stated it would continue to honor contractual obligations to players. The board will issue no-objection certificates (NOCs) should the ICC grant official approval to Afghan leagues, though it noted that such participation should not be interpreted as an endorsement of the current regime or its policies.
The Taliban government has maintained that its policies regarding women’s rights are in accordance with its interpretation of Islamic law and local customs, asserting that these matters should be handled internally. For its part, Cricket Scotland has committed to reviewing its new policy on an annual basis, or sooner should there be a significant development from the ICC or a material change in the situation on the ground in Afghanistan.
