Afghan refugee women cricketer Firooza Afghan added: “Over the past year, the opportunities to come together as a group and tour India and England have provided us some of the most memorable experiences in our lives.
“The support to train in our home locations with quality coaches plays a big role in our progress.
“A long term view of participation in ICC qualification pathways gives us a clear goal to work towards, and we are determined to make the most of every opportunity along that journey.”
Former Australia international-turned-commentator, Mel Jones, sees the initiative as an important and powerful one.
“The continued support for these remarkable women, alongside a clear roadmap towards ICC qualification pathways by 2030, represents an important commitment to their future,” Jones said.
“It sends a powerful message that talent and determination deserve opportunity. These players are role models, inspiring women and girls around the world, and it’s exciting to see a long-term pathway that balances development with meaningful competition while recognising their unique journey.
“The progress they’ve made over the past year has been extraordinary, and I can’t wait to see what this team achieves by 2030.”
The support to the Afghan refugee women cricketers involves continued access to cricket and S&C coaches as well as physiotherapy in their home locations, with an increase of game time planned in a phased manner. The players, currently based in Australia, England and Canada, will continue to be integrated into their local cricket environments, as they are provided with training and playing opportunities.
The players will also continue to receive opportunities to train and compete as a group, similar to tours facilitated to India and England over the last 12 months. Such collective playing opportunities, set to be implemented in a phased manner, will be against opposition chosen with a strategic view to support their development towards ICC qualification events by 2030.
