Afghan women cricketers have expressed deep disappointment over foreign players participating in the inaugural Afghanistan Premier League, stating that their involvement sends a troubling message about the plight of women in the country. The players, including Firooza Amiri and Nahida Sapan, who have fled to Australia, emphasized that such actions indicate that the suffering of Afghan women can be overlooked in the pursuit of profit and entertainment.

The Afghan Refugee Women's cricket team has been vocal about the implications of the league, asserting that women's rights should take precedence over any sporting event. Their statement reflects a broader concern that the international cricket community is ignoring the dire situation faced by women in Afghanistan, particularly since the Taliban's return to power has severely restricted women's rights and freedoms.S1S2

As the league moves forward, the Afghan cricketers are calling on international players to reconsider their participation, urging them to stand in solidarity with Afghan women rather than contributing to a narrative that diminishes their struggles. This sentiment resonates with many advocates for women's rights, who argue that the global sporting community has a responsibility to support those facing oppression, rather than engaging in business as usual.S1S2