ICC Backs Afghan Refugee Women Cricketers, Targets Global Qualification by 2030

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Afghan refugee women cricketers , approving the continuation of its Development Pathway Programme while setting an ambitious target of helping the team enter the ICC qualification pathway by 2030 .

The decision was taken during the ICC Board's Annual Conference in Edinburgh , where the governing body also reconstituted its Special Task Force to prepare a structured roadmap for the team's participation in ICC qualification events over the next five years.

To strengthen the initiative, the ICC appointed Independent Director Ros Rivaz and ICC Chief Executives' Committee member Sarah Keane to the Task Force, joining representatives from the BCCI , Cricket Australia , and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) .

According to Rivaz, the roadmap aims to provide structured coaching, meaningful competition and high-performance pathways , ensuring sustainable development for the displaced players.

The programme will continue offering professional cricket coaching, strength and conditioning support, physiotherapy services , and expanded playing opportunities in phases. Players based in Australia, England and Canada will remain integrated into local cricket systems while also assembling for overseas training camps and international tours, building on successful visits to India and England over the past year.

The ICC plans to gradually increase competitive fixtures against carefully selected opponents, enabling the squad to gain valuable experience before entering qualification events.

Player Nahida Sapan welcomed the long-term commitment, saying the programme has helped the group stay connected as a team while continuing their cricketing journey. Fellow cricketer Firooza Afghan described the tours of India and England as life-changing experiences and said the 2030 qualification goal gives the squad a clear sense of purpose.

Former Australia international Mel Jones , co-founder of the 'It's Game On' initiative, called the roadmap a powerful statement that talent and determination deserve opportunity. She said the players have already made remarkable progress despite extraordinary challenges and expressed confidence that continued support would inspire women and girls worldwide while helping the team achieve its long-term ambitions.