T20 World Cup 2026: Rashid Khan talks about women’s cricket scenario in Afghanistan

Afghanistan’s most recognizable cricket face Rashid Khanhas finally addressed one of the most sensitive and closely watched issues surrounding the country’s cricketing future: the status of women’s cricket. As Afghanistan prepares for another high-profile appearance on the world stage, Rashid’s comments have reignited the debate on inclusivity, accountability and the limits of any player’s influence in a complex political landscape.

Rashid Khan recognizes the importance of women’s cricket

Speaking ahead of Afghanistan’s opening match of the men’s tournament against New Zealand in Chennai, Rashid made it clear that women’s cricket is an essential part of full membership in international cricket. While choosing his words carefully, the star legspinner emphasized that he is proud to see Afghans representing the country in any form.

According to Rashid, the presence of a women’s team is not only symbolic, but also structural. He acknowledged that women’s cricket is part of the criteria set by the sport’s global governing body and said it would always be a proud moment to see Afghan women competing under the national flag.

“Women’s team? Absolutely. I think that’s part of the criteria for being a full member. The ICC and the Afghanistan Cricket Board know best, but we love to see someone representing Afghanistan on any stage. It’s a proud moment and you’re representing your country,” said Rashid in the pre-match presser.

His comments come at a time when Afghanistan’s cricket performance on the men’s side continues to rise, even as the absence of an active women’s team draws criticism from fans, players and administrators around the world.

Afghan women cricketers in exile are still waiting for a way forward

The issue has remained unresolved since the Taliban’s return to power, forcing several Afghan women cricketers to flee the country and continue their careers in exile. Many of them have spoken publicly about the emotional toll of representing Afghanistan without being able to do so officially.

Last year women’s cricketer Firooza Amiri had urged the men’s team to use its growing influence to support women’s cricket. She believed that the popularity and global reach of Afghanistan’s male stars could draw attention to the struggles of women cricketers and spur decision-makers to action.

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Rashid points out the limits of player power

While expressing moral support, Rashid was also realistic about the limitations players faced. He emphasized that decisions regarding women’s cricket are beyond the control of individual cricketers and rest with the organization Afghanistan cricket board and the International Cricket Council.

Rashid explained that players can only focus on performing on the field and supporting the game within their capabilities. Larger structural and political decisions, he noted, are handled by administrators and governing bodies, which must decide the way forward.

“But yes, ultimately the decision lies with the Afghanistan Cricket Board and the ICC. As players, we don’t have much control and can only focus on what we can influence. In this situation, we can’t decide much, but our support is always there. The bigger decisions are made by those in charge, and they take the lead.” Rashid added.

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