Dear ICC & ECB members,
We are writing to you on behalf of the Afghan Cricket Association to emphasise the immense significance of Afghan cricket, not only as a sport but as a ray of hope for millions of Afghans, particularly during these difficult times for the country. Afghan cricket has transcended its role as a mere athletic pursuit and has become a unifying factor for Afghans within the country and abroad, a medium of global representation, and a platform for advocating fundamental human rights. The Afghan players themselves have proved the above statement both on and off the field by displaying exceptional performances, as well as standing shoulder to shoulder with their fellow citizens in needy times.
While the situation for Afghan women and girls under the current regime is dire and demands strong international advocacy, targeting the Afghan Cricket Team is a short-sighted flawed and misguided approach because:
1. Cricket is a Beacon of Hope for Afghans
For millions of Afghans, cricket represents a rare moment of hope, unity, and optimism. In a country marred by decades of conflict and instability, cricket is a unifying force that provides solace to people of all ethnicities, backgrounds, and beliefs. The team raises the national flag and plays the national anthem on global stages giving it’s people a sense of identity, belonging, and offers a ray of hope amidst adversity.
2. A Voice for the Voiceless
Afghan cricketers have emerged as influential figures, using their platform to address critical issues such as education, women’s rights, and societal progress. They have urged the current regime to reopen schools for girls, advocating for equality and inclusivity. Their voices resonate with the millions who lack avenues to express their concerns, making them crucial role models in a suppressed society. Their voices should be amplified for meaningful change, not abandoned.
3. Boycotting Afghan Cricket is unfair and counterproductive
Abandoning Afghan cricket only perpetuates more harm. The advocacy for women sport and rights is highly encouraged and needed through the appropriate channels, not the collective punishment of an entire nation. The Afghan Cricket team plays under the country’s national flag and anthem, it is the only major platforms where Afghans are represented globally. “Two wrongs don’t make a right” and this approach is doing just that.
4. Afghanistan’s Global Representation
The Afghan Cricket Team has played a pivotal role in placing Afghanistan on the global stage in a positive light. Their successes resonate far beyond the cricketing world, demonstrating resilience, determination, and the ability to achieve greatness despite insurmountable odds. These achievements reflect the indomitable spirit of the Afghan people and their desire for peace and progress. Afghan Cricketers have been powerful ambassadors for Afghanistan. Isolating the team tarnishes this image and limits an essential avenue of global representation and engagement.
5. Unwarranted Regional Rivalries
Afghanistan’s rapid ascent in world cricket has unsettled some regional competitors who perceive the team as a threat to their dominance. There is evidence of campaigns to suppress Afghan cricket’s progress, driven by jealousy and strategic interests. Supporting Afghan cricket is not just about backing a sport but also extending the sport reach globally as well as ensuring fairness and equality on global cricketing platforms.
6. Enormous Challenges at Home
Afghan Cricket faces significant obstacles to the games development at home, fans increasingly fear the sport may face restrictions or even a complete ban due to the players being publically vocal about women’s education. Cricket thrives in Afghanistan because of the unwavering passion of its players and fans. A loss of cricket would devastate Afghan society and remove one of the few remaining symbols of national unity and pride.
7. Targeted by Separatist Groups and Individuals with Political and Personal Agendas
Afghan cricket’s ability to unite people from across the country makes it a target for separatist groups and foreign agendas aiming to cause division and instability. These entities fear the power of Afghan cricket to bring people together and amplify the voices of unity, peace, and resilience. Protecting cricket is tantamount to protecting Afghanistan’s identity, unity and integrity.
We urge the ICC and ECB to stand in solidarity with Afghan cricket by voicing support for its continued presence on the world stage, as you have done in the past. Your support will not only reinforce the values of fairness and inclusivity in cricket but also provide a lifeline to millions of Afghans who see cricket as a symbol of joy, empowerment, and unity.
We would like to extend our appreciation for your continuous support thus far and hope you will continue your efforts in order to ensure the rights of Afghan women’s are preserved via the appropriate channels, as well as the continuity of Afghan cricket to thrive and inspire the future generations.
Yours sincerely,
Bashir Gharwal
Chair of Afghan Cricket Association