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‘We Are Cricketers, Not Politicians’ – Hashmatullah Shahidi Refuses to Speak on Afghanistan’s Ban on Women’s Cricket

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Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi has voiced his support for women’s cricket in Afghanistan but has stated that he cannot interfere in political matters. The 30-year-old made these comments while speaking in Pakistan during the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, ahead of Afghanistan’s crucial Group B match against England.

Women’s Cricket Ban in Afghanistan

Since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan in 2021, women’s cricket has been banned in the country. This decision has faced strong opposition from the global cricketing community. Cricket Australia has repeatedly canceled bilateral series against Afghanistan in protest, while politicians from England and South Africa even considered boycotting their matches against Afghanistan in the ongoing Champions Trophy. However, both teams ultimately played their scheduled fixtures in Pakistan.

Hashmatullah Shahidi’s Stand on Women’s Cricket

While Shahidi expressed his support for women’s cricket, he made it clear that, as a cricketer, he cannot challenge the political decisions of his country. Speaking about the situation, he said:

“Everyone likes to see everyone play. When it comes to politics and those things which we cannot control, we are only cricket players. We are sportspersons.”

His statement reflects the complex situation Afghan cricketers face, as they must balance their personal views with the political environment in their country.

Australia Supports Afghan Women Cricketers

Despite the ban, Afghan women’s cricket received some encouragement earlier this year. A group of Afghan women players, who have taken refuge in Australia, participated in an exhibition match in Melbourne against the ‘Cricket Without Borders’ team. This initiative was supported by Cricket Australia and the Australian government, providing a platform for Afghan women cricketers to continue playing the sport.

Afghanistan’s ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Campaign

On the field, Afghanistan has had a tough start in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. They suffered a heavy 107-run defeat against South Africa in their opening match in Karachi on February 21. Led by Hashmatullah Shahidi, the team will now look to bounce back in their upcoming matches, including their key fixture against England.

While the future of women’s cricket in Afghanistan remains uncertain, international pressure continues to mount on the country’s cricket board to reinstate the women’s team.

Story First Published at www.probatsman.com on 26 February 2025

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