A group of British lawmakers have urged England cricket team To boycott the upcoming Champions Cup match against afghanistan, Citing the Taliban regime's harsh treatment of women and girls.
This appeal comes before England's group stage match against Afghanistan scheduled for February 26 in Lahore, Pakistan. More than 160 British politicians, led by Labor MP Tonia Antoniazzi, have signed a letter to the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), urging the team to take a stand against the repressive policies of the Afghan Taliban government.
Politicians demand action against human rights violations
The letter underscores the dire situation women have been living in in Afghanistan since the Taliban regained power in 2021. The regime has severely restricted women's rights, preventing them from education, employment and sporting activities – a direct violation International Cricket Council (ICC) Regulations, which stipulate the development of women's cricket as a prerequisite for full membership.
“We strongly urge the ECB to consider boycotting the upcoming match against Afghanistan to send a clear signal that such heinous violations will not be tolerated,” the letter said. Signatories included prominent political figures such as Nigel Farage, Jeremy Corbyn and Lord Kinnock.
The European Central Bank calls for a coordinated approach
In response to the letter, ECB CEO Richard Gould reiterated the Council's condemnation of the Taliban's treatment of women. However, Gould stressed the importance of a unified response from all ICC member states.
“The European Central Bank strongly condemns the treatment of women and girls in Afghanistan under the Taliban regime,” Gould said. “Although there is no consensus on further international action within the ICC, the ECB will continue to actively advocate for such measures. A coordinated approach at ICC level would be significantly more impactful than unilateral measures taken by members.” individuals.”
Gould also highlighted the ECB's ongoing policy of not scheduling bilateral matches against Afghanistan, noting that Champions Cup It is an ICC event, and participation decisions fall under the remit of the global governing body.
Afghanistan's continued involvement raises controversy
The issue of Afghanistan's participation in international cricket has been a controversial topic. While the ICC has yet to impose sanctions on the Afghan men's team, several cricketing nations have taken a stand.
Australia canceled the bilateral T20 series against Afghanistan earlier this year, citing concerns about human rights violations. However, Afghanistan continued to participate in ICC tournaments, without facing any restrictions.
Cricket as a beacon of hope
While some claim that boycotting matches against Afghanistan sends a strong message, others warn against alienating the Afghan people, especially those who find solace in cricket amid difficult circumstances.
Gould acknowledged this sentiment, saying: “We understand the concerns raised by those who believe that boycotting men's cricket could inadvertently support Taliban efforts to suppress freedoms and isolate Afghan society. It is crucial that we recognize the importance of cricket as a source of hope.” “And positive for many Afghans, including those displaced from the country.”
The future of women's cricket in Afghanistan
The situation remains bleak for the Afghanistan women's cricket team. The team was disbanded after the Taliban returned to power, and many players fled the country for their safety. In 2020, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) awarded contracts to 25 female players. However, progress was undone when the Taliban reinstated their restrictive policies.
The UK Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) has expressed its concerns about the issue, stating that it is in contact with the European Central Bank to explore ways to address the situation.
A DCMS spokesperson said: “We are deeply concerned about the horrific erosion of the rights of women and girls in Afghanistan.” “We welcome the fact that the ECB is submitting a protest to the ICC on this broader issue and what support it can provide.”
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