The Afghanistan Women’s cricket team will realise their long-held dream of playing together in an exhibition match at Melbourne’s Junction Oval on January 30. Featuring an Afghanistan Women’s XI against a Cricket Without Borders XI, this match marks a major milestone in their journey and coincides with the opening of the CommBank Women’s Ashes Day/Night Test Match at the MCG, celebrating the spirit of inclusion within Australian cricket.
This landmark game showcases the skill and determination of the Afghan players and acknowledges the collective support they’ve received from Cricket Australia, State and Territory Associations, Premier and Community Clubs, as well as individuals across the cricket community. These organisations have not only facilitated their resettlement in Australia but have also created pathways for them to continue their passion for cricket.
The event has been planned with input from the Afghanistan women players now based in Australia and is supported by Cricket Australia and the Australian Government. It’s an emblematic moment not just for the players but also for those in Australia who’ve embraced their integration and nurtured their continued participation in the sport.
Cricket Australia’s Chief Executive Nick Hockley expressed his enthusiasm for the match, reflecting on the collective efforts that have supported the Afghan women’s team since their arrival in Australia. “Many people across cricket and the community have come together to provide support for members of the Afghanistan women’s team since their relocation to Australia, and this match will be a celebration of that work. I’m delighted that their ambition to play together will be achieved in this exhibition match, which will be a wonderful addition to the many events around the Day/Night Women’s Ashes Test.”
The exhibition match is set to be more than a game; it’s a tribute to resilience, collaboration, and the ever-expanding inclusivity of the cricket community.
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