Melbourne [Australia]: Cricket Australia (CA) Chief Executive Nick Hockley has hailed the upcoming exhibition match involving the Afghanistan Women’s XI in Melbourne as a significant milestone and a symbol of hope. The match marks an important step in the team’s efforts to reclaim their place in international cricket.
The Afghanistan Women’s XI, comprising refugee players now based in Australia, is set to face a Cricket Without Borders XI in a T20 match at the Junction Oval on Thursday morning. This historic game will precede the opening day of the Women’s Ashes day-night Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
This event holds immense significance as it will be the first time the Afghanistan Women’s team has reunited since fleeing their homeland following the Taliban’s rise to power. The players, currently residing in Canberra and Melbourne, see this match as a pivotal moment in their cricketing journey.
A Collaborative Effort to Empower Afghan Women Cricketers
During a press conference at the Junction Oval, Hockley was joined by players Nahida Sapan and Firooza Amiri. Sapan, who will captain the team for the match, expressed her excitement and determination. Also present were Cricket Without Borders Chair Clare Cannon, Director Ken Jacobs, and Australia’s Federal Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs, Tim Watts.
Hockley emphasized the importance of the match, stating that it could pave the way for future opportunities for Afghan women in cricket. He also noted support from the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), with England captain Heather Knight having met the Afghan players in Melbourne.
“This match is a first step,” Hockley said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. “We’ve got ECB colleagues visiting for the Women’s Ashes, and conversations are underway to explore how England and Australia can provide further support. My hope is that this game sparks broader discussions, becomes an annual event, and ultimately enables this team to compete on the international stage.”
Hockley expressed admiration for the players’ resilience in overcoming immense challenges. “I can’t imagine what they’ve endured—starting over in a new country, facing language barriers, and rebuilding their lives. Their passion for cricket and determination to inspire others are truly remarkable. This match is a beacon of hope for Afghan women and girls who are denied opportunities to play sports,” he added.
He shared a touching moment when the players received their personalized shirts for the first time. “It was clear how much it meant to them. I hope this is just the beginning of a successful journey for these players and a reminder that many women and girls globally lack access to sport.”
Afghan Players Reflect on the Significance of the Match
Nahida Sapan, who plays for Carnegie in Melbourne, and Firooza Amiri, a Dandenong club cricketer, voiced their excitement about representing the Afghanistan Women’s XI.
“This is a historic moment for Afghan women,” Sapan said. “We have high hopes for this match, as it can open doors for Afghan women in education, sports, and other fields. We don’t want this to be our first and last match; we want more opportunities and support.”
Amiri, a passionate advocate for Afghan women cricketers, described the reunion of the team as deeply emotional. “This match is special not only for us but for the millions of Afghan women we represent—women who are denied their rights back home. After three years of being apart, leaving everything behind, and starting over, it’s a joy to play together again.”
She added, “We’ve had a few training camps, but this will be our first match. It’s exciting, and we are hopeful for a win.”
A Symbol of Hope for Afghan Women
Though Australia does not currently engage in bilateral series with Afghanistan, the two teams continue to compete in ICC tournaments. They are set to face each other in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy, scheduled to take place in Pakistan and the UAE next month.
Organizers, including Hockley, remain optimistic that this symbolic match will draw global attention to the struggles and resilience of Afghan women cricketers. The exhibition match not only showcases their love for the game but also highlights their courage in the face of adversity, offering a message of hope to Afghan women worldwide.
