In the sports world, cricket is much more than a game. This is a big stage where any messages can be spreaded on a bigger aspect. South African captain Temba Bavuma has done something similar. He supports the South African Cricketers’ Association’s demand to end gender discrimination preventing Afghan women from participating in sports.
Gender Discrimination in Afghanistan and CSA’s Protest:
The South African Cricketers’ Association released a statement acknowledging Cricket South Africa’s right to arrange matches, including their upcoming series against Afghanistan. However, SACA urged CSA to use its influence during these fixtures to advocate for the rights of Afghanistan’s women cricketers, emphasizing that their rights must be safeguarded and respected.
They remain engaged in discussions about the status of women’s cricket in Afghanistan through the ICC. Afghanistan has not had a women’s cricket team since gaining Full Member status in 2017. Although Afghanistan contracted 25 women players in 2020, the situation has worsened since the Taliban’s takeover in 2021.
Since the Taliban’s return to power, prospects for a women’s cricket team in Afghanistan have all but vanished. Afghan women face significant barriers to participating in sports and other societal roles, with limited access to essential services. As a result, the series brings to light broader questions about gender equality and the future of women’s sports in Afghanistan.
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Temba Bavuma’s Words:
Temba Bavuma emphasized the importance of respecting women’s rights, drawing on South Africa’s own experiences to advocate for those who are currently oppressed. Bavuma reiterated the call for action on this issue.
He said, “I look at it in my personal capacity. It’s obviously something that is quite strong within my own values. I support the idea of inclusivity and caring for women. We want everyone to have a fair chance within society, and we know that that is something that is relevant to us as a country in South Africa. I’m fully behind the sentiments that are expressed by SACA.”
Later he said, “I think I’ve got to respect the fact that there are people in positions who have that responsibility to speak more eloquently and articulate a little bit more of it. In my own personal capacity, I definitely support the stance and the sentiments expressed by SACA.”
Lastly he said, “And I can understand where Rob as well is coming from in that we are selected to do a job in the cricketing field. And I think a lot of our energy will generally be dedicated to that at least.”
South Africa is all set to face Afghanistan in a three-match ODI series from 18th September. This ODI series marks the first time Afghanistan and South Africa will face each other outside of ICC events. All three matches will be played at Sharjah Cricket Stadium, hosted by the Afghanistan Cricket Board.
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