The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has rejected calls from British politicians to boycott England’s Champions Trophy match against Afghanistan in February, emphasizing that such actions require a “coordinated, ICC-led response.”
In response to a letter signed by over 160 cross-party politicians, including Labour MP Tonia Antoniazzi, Jeremy Corbyn, Lord Kinnock, and Nigel Farage, ECB Chief Executive Richard Gould acknowledged concerns about the Taliban’s treatment of women and girls in Afghanistan, particularly the ban on womenโs sports since 2021. The letter urged the ECB to take a stand by boycotting the February 26 match in Lahore, England’s second game in the tournament.
Gould condemned the Taliban’s policies but pointed out that the ECB does not arrange bilateral matches with Afghanistan, and that participation in ICC tournaments is governed by the global cricketing body. He stressed that a coordinated approach by the ICC would have a greater impact than unilateral actions by individual members.
This situation mirrors the 2003 World Cup controversy, when England was urged to boycott a match against Zimbabwe under Robert Mugabeโs regime. At that time, England forfeited points after the players were given the choice.
Gould acknowledged the significance of cricket to the Afghan people, calling it “a source of hope and positivity,” especially for those displaced by conflict. He emphasized the need to consider the wider impact on Afghan society while advocating for women’s rights. The ECB will continue to engage with the UK government, the ICC, and other stakeholders to address the issue and call for international action on the treatment of women in Afghanistan.
