The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has confirmed that England will play their Champions Trophy match against Afghanistan later this month. This decision comes despite calls for a boycott in response to the Taliban government’s restrictions on women’s rights in Afghanistan. Cricket fans are eagerly anticipating the England vs Afghanistan Champions Trophy 2025 match.
Calls for Boycott
Last month, a group of British lawmakers urged England to boycott the group stage match scheduled for February 26th in Lahore. South Africa’s Sports Minister, Gayton McKenzie, also supported the boycott. These calls stemmed from concerns over the Taliban’s ban on women playing cricket and their broader crackdown on women’s rights in Afghanistan, which affected the participation in the Champions Trophy, including the anticipated England vs Afghanistan 2025 clash.
ECB’s Position
ECB Chair Richard Thompson stated that the decision to play the match followed discussions with the UK government, the International Cricket Council (ICC), and the players. He emphasized that addressing the situation in Afghanistan requires a coordinated international effort. This consensus was crucial for the Champions Trophy event, particularly the England vs Afghanistan match in 2025.
“We believe a unified response from the cricketing community will be more effective than unilateral action,” Thompson explained. He also acknowledged that cricket provides a source of enjoyment for many ordinary Afghans, especially during the Champions Trophy, including the highly awaited England vs Afghanistan 2025 contest.
Support for Afghan Women Cricketers
The ECB remains committed to supporting Afghan women cricketers. Thompson highlighted the ECB’s donation of £100,000 to a new refugee fund established by the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC). This fund will provide assistance to exiled Afghan women cricketers, many of whom now reside in Australia, echoing the spirit of the Champions Trophy.
“Gender Apartheid”
Thompson condemned the situation in Afghanistan, referring to it as “gender apartheid.” He expressed his disappointment that girls and women in Afghanistan are denied the opportunity to play cricket at a time when the sport is experiencing significant growth globally, highlighted by major tournaments like the Champions Trophy.
