ECB rejects boycott calls for Afghanistan match in Champions Trophy 2025

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has turned down calls from British politicians to boycott their Champions Trophy match against Afghanistan, scheduled for February 26 in Lahore. The request, made by a group of over 160 cross-party politicians, highlighted concerns over the Taliban's treatment of women in Afghanistan.  

In a letter led by Labour MP Tonia Antoniazzi, the politicians described the situation in Afghanistan as an "insidious dystopia" and called for England to take a stand against the "sex apartheid" enforced by the Taliban since their return to power in 2021. They urged the ECB to send a strong message of solidarity to Afghan women by refusing to play the match.  

The Taliban's policies have effectively banned women’s sports, violating the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) rules, which require member nations to support both men’s and women’s cricket.  

Richard Gould, the ECB’s chief executive, acknowledged the serious issues raised but emphasized that the matter requires a collective response from the ICC rather than unilateral action by individual boards.  

"The ECB strongly condemns the treatment of women and girls in Afghanistan under the Taliban regime," Gould stated. "However, a coordinated ICC-wide approach would be more impactful than unilateral actions."  

Gould confirmed that England has no plans to schedule bilateral series with Afghanistan while the Taliban remains in power. However, he argued that boycotting ICC events could unintentionally harm the Afghan people, many of whom see cricket as a source of hope.  

"Cricket brings positivity to many Afghans, including those displaced from their country," Gould added. "The ECB will continue to advocate for measures that protect women’s rights while considering the broader impact on Afghan society."  

The situation draws comparisons to England’s 2003 World Cup dilemma, where the team was pressured to boycott a match against Zimbabwe over political concerns. That decision ultimately led to a forfeiture, impacting England’s progress in the tournament.  

England and Afghanistan last met during the 2023 ODI World Cup, where Afghanistan secured a historic victory. Despite the ongoing controversy, the upcoming Champions Trophy match is expected to proceed, with England continuing to advocate for international cricket to address these pressing human rights issues collectively.  

The Champions Trophy 2025 will be held in Pakistan and the UAE, with England placed in Group B alongside Afghanistan, Australia, and South Africa.