Australia has withdrawn from a three-match ODI series against Afghanistan scheduled to be played in March 2023 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), citing the Taliban government’s recent restrictions on women’s sports and outdoor activities in Afghanistan. Cricket Australia had previously announced that it was reconsidering its decision to play the series after the Taliban captured power in the country last year.
“Following extensive consultation with relevant stakeholders, including the Australian Government, Cricket Australia has decided that it is unable to proceed at this time with the upcoming ICC Super League three-match Men’s ODI series between Australia and Afghanistan scheduled for the UAE in March 2023,” Cricket Australia announced in a statement.
The statement further explained that this decision was made in response to the Taliban’s recent announcement of further restrictions on women’s and girls’ education and employment opportunities, as well as their ability to access parks and gyms. Cricket Australia expressed its commitment to supporting and growing the game for both men and women around the world, including in Afghanistan, and will continue to engage with the Afghanistan Cricket Board in anticipation of improved conditions for women and girls in the country.
This marks the second time in the last two years that Australia has withdrawn from a tour due to safety concerns. In 2021, the team pulled out of a tour of South Africa due to the COVID-19 pandemic, citing the more contagious variant of the virus reported at the time.
