By: AISRS Editorial Team
Afghanistan's cricket journey is nothing short of a modern-day sports miracle. From the dusty grounds of Kabul to competing with cricketing giants on the world stage, the Afghan cricket team has carved a unique place for itself in the hearts of millions. This remarkable success story has unfolded over just two decades, demonstrating the resilience, determination, and talent of Afghan youth. At a time when Afghanistan faces significant challenges, the International Cricket Council (ICC) and its member states must continue supporting Afghan cricket, ensuring it remains a beacon of hope and unity for a nation in need.
Cricket in Afghanistan began as a grassroots movement, nurtured by a handful of passionate individuals who defied immense societal, economic, and technical obstacles. Despite systematic opposition, even from some senior government officials in earlier regimes, these pioneers established the Afghan Cricket Federation and later the Afghan Cricket Board. Their perseverance bore fruit as Afghanistan earned full ICC membership in 2017—a milestone achieved through sheer hard work and unmatched progress.
All ICC full members played a significant role in supporting Afghanistan's cricket team on its journey to achieving full ICC membership. The support from these established cricketing nations underscores the global cricket community's recognition of Afghanistan's rapid progress and potential in the sport. It also reflects the collaborative spirit within the cricketing world, aimed at fostering growth and expanding the game's reach to new horizons.
This support must continue. Cricket should not be unfairly targeted over human rights issues. Critics of cricket seem unconcerned with the current Afghan officials but are instead focused on safeguarding their own interests.
In just over a decade and a half, the Afghan cricket team has risen to challenge and defeat full ICC member countries. Its players have become household names in global cricket leagues, securing lucrative contracts worth millions. These achievements underscore not only the team's technical prowess but also its ability to inspire a generation of Afghans.
Cricket as a Symbol of Unity and Hope
Unlike other sports in Afghanistan, which enjoyed generous funding but limited success, cricket has thrived with minimal resources. It has become a unifying force, fostering national pride and offering a positive outlet for Afghan youth. In a society plagued by conflict, cricket has provided a rare source of joy and a means of steering young people away from destructive paths such as drug abuse. Today, street cricket is a common sight across Afghanistan, reflecting the sport's deep roots in the nation's culture.
The Afghan cricket team has consistently remained apolitical, focusing solely on the sport. Regardless of the regime in power, the team has maintained its commitment to cricket, keeping it separate from political interventions. This neutrality further strengthens the case for its continued support on the international stage.
The ICC and its member states played a pivotal role in Afghanistan's journey to full membership in 2017. They recognized the team's achievements and the sport's potential to positively impact Afghan society. Now, more than ever, Afghan cricket needs their support.
Boycotting the Afghan cricket team would not only undermine years of hard work but also rob the Afghan people of a cherished symbol of unity and hope. Cricket represents more than just a sport in Afghanistan; it is a bridge to the international community, a channel for cultural diplomacy, and a realistic representation of the nation's aspirations.
Cricket has the power to transcend political divides and foster dialogue. At a time when Afghanistan faces isolation, the sport can serve as a means of engagement with the international community. Through this channel we can send positive messages to current Afghan officials and can use it as means for sports diplomacy.
By supporting Afghan cricket, ICC member states can send a powerful message that the global cricketing family stands with the Afghan people, recognizing their achievements and aspirations.
Some critics, driven by personal or political agendas, have sought to undermine Afghan cricket.
Following the political changes in Afghanistan in 2001, criticism has been directed at the current Afghan government officials which seems rational and Afghans do have the right to express their opinion and criticise officials. The opposition and criticizing of government should not result in politicizing cricket or attaching sport to government or regime is unjust and irrational.
Recently, certain members of the UK Parliament, along with individuals potentially influenced by lobbying groups, have called for the England cricket team to boycott Afghanistan's participation in the ICC Champions Trophy, scheduled for February 2025 in Pakistan. This suggestion has also found support among a few officials from the former Afghan government, whose reputations are deeply tarnished among the Afghan populace due to allegations of corruption and poor governance. These former officials, widely discredited within Afghanistan, lack legitimacy and do not represent the views or aspirations of the Afghan nation.
The call to politicize cricket in this manner is deeply concerning. Cricket, as a unifying force, has been a beacon of hope for millions of Afghans, transcending political and social divides. The game has provided a platform for Afghan youth to excel on the global stage, symbolizing resilience and national pride. To target Afghan cricket as a means of advancing political agendas undermines not only the sport itself but also the spirit of international camaraderie that it fosters.
It is imperative for UK Parliament members and other stakeholders to adopt a rational approach and refrain from politicizing cricket. Decisions influenced by lobbying groups or individuals with questionable motives risk damaging the integrity of the sport. Furthermore, the International Cricket Council (ICC) must uphold its principles, ensuring that cricket remains a platform for promoting unity and fair play rather than a tool for political leverage.
However, some of this criticism appears to stem from groups that previously benefited from illicit activities in former Afghan government, such as drug trade and corruption. These groups have even exploited the cause of women’s rights for their own selfish interests.
It is crucial that the Afghan cricket team remains independent and does not fall victim to the policies of any regime or the actions of corrupt former officials with questionable reputations.
In recent times, we have witnessed overwhelming support for the Afghan cricket team from all sections of society, including women, men, youth, technocrats, and even former government officials. Articles and public expressions of solidarity highlight that cricket in Afghanistan transcends political regimes and gender boundaries.
Cricket is a unifying force and should not be targeted or associated with specific political agendas. The fact that women have openly supported the Afghan cricket team further reinforces its independence and inclusivity.
Afghan cricket, unlike many other sectors, has remained free from the influence of such corrupt mafias. Its success is built on the hard work and determination of players, coaches, and administrators who have dedicated themselves to the game. The critics’ attempts to politicize and tarnish this success should be seen for what they are—a desperate bid to regain lost power and influence.
These attacks are not just against the Afghan cricket team but against the Afghan people, who have found hope, pride, and unity in the sport. The global cricketing community must reject these malicious narratives and stand firmly with Afghan cricket, ensuring that the achievements of the team are celebrated and supported rather than undermined by the agendas of a corrupt few.
However, it is essential to remember that the team is not a product of any specific government but an asset of the Afghan people. The ICC and its member states must honour this distinction and protect the sport from political interference.
The Afghan cricket team is a source of pride, motivation, and hope for millions. Depriving Afghanistan of its beloved team would be a grave injustice to a nation that has found solace and unity in the game. Instead, the global cricketing community should redouble its efforts to support Afghan cricket, providing opportunities for the team to continue its remarkable journey.
Let us ensure that cricket remains a unifying force, a symbol of resilience, and a channel for engagement. The Afghan cricket team deserves not only our admiration but also our unwavering support.