SACA Calls for Women's Inclusion Amid South Africa-Afghanistan ODI Series

The South African Cricketers’ Association supports the ODI series against Afghanistan but emphasizes the importance of women's participation in cricket. SACA CEO Andrew Breetzke highlights the need for equal opportunities for all athletes, while urging Cricket South Africa to leverage the series for advocating women’s rights in Afghanistan.

The South African Cricketers' Association (SACA) has expressed support for the ODI series against Afghanistan, while also championing the cause of promoting women's participation in cricket. The series, set to begin on September 18 at Sharjah Cricket Stadium, highlights a complex backdrop as Afghanistan remains the only ICC Full Member without a women's team.

"The Proteas Men white-ball series against Afghanistan later this month is one such series that forms part of the FTP. We respect the position of CSA in this regard as the national governing body for cricket," said SACA CEO Andrew Breetzke, who is also a board member of the World Cricketers' Association (WCA).

However, Breetzke emphasized, "It is incumbent upon SACA to reaffirm our commitment to supporting and promoting the participation of women in cricket. The deteriorating human rights for women under Taliban rule cannot be ignored in the context of cricket."

Cricket South Africa's decision to continue with the ODI series coincides with Cricket Australia's decision to postpone a men's ODI series against Afghanistan due to the Taliban's stance against women's participation in sports.

"The WCA and SACA do not condone any situation in which women's players are excluded from competing in our sport," Breetzke added, citing international law and the Universal Declaration of Player Rights which protect equality of opportunity in sports.

This bilateral series is the first between South Africa and Afghanistan. The Proteas have played only two ODIs against Afghanistan in World Cups so far.

SACA urged Cricket South Africa to use its influence during this series to advocate for the rights of Afghanistan's women cricketers.

(With inputs from agencies.)