There is currently a campaign in the United Kingdom aimed at Afghanistan's national cricket team, initiated by some politicians who are advocating for a boycott of the upcoming England match against Afghanistan in the Champions Trophy on 26 February 2025. This call for a boycott is a protest against the Taliban's policies regarding women's rights in Afghanistan. While the England Cricket Board (ECB) has rejected this boycott initiative, the campaign persists.

I want to emphasize that sports should remain apolitical, as they are separate from the ongoing crisis in Afghanistan. Interestingly, even some members of the Taliban do not support cricket. The current situation in Afghanistan is the result of political decisions, including the United States Doha Agreement and the subsequent withdrawal, which have unfortunately contributed to the deteriorating conditions affecting the Afghan population, especially women.

For millions of Afghans, both at home and in the diaspora, the Afghanistan cricket team serves as a beacon of pride and a source of joy. Despite the Taliban's attempts to suppress symbols of national identities, such as the Afghan flag and national anthem, Afghan cricketers continue to honour these symbols on the international stage. Cricket is currently the only source of joy for millions of Afghan people who are enduring humanitarian crises, famine, and international sanctions. We should not take away their last remaining source of happiness.

Members of the Afghan national cricket team, including star bowler Rashid Khan, have spoken out against the recent harsh decrees of the Taliban regarding women and are tirelessly campaigning for women's rights in Afghanistan.

If the international isolation, sanctions, and other restrictions on the Taliban have not prompted them to improve women's rights, then a cricket ban, which they oppose and which has nothing to do with them, will certainly not compel them to change. Instead, it would punish millions of Afghans and their supporters globally.

The Afghanistan national cricket team stands as a symbol of unity, resilience, and pride for millions, including Afghans and supporters around the world.

I therefore encourage everyone to consider signing this petition in support of the Afghan national cricket team. The Afghan national cricket team represents and belongs to the Afghan people, not the Taliban. By signing the petition, you will send a positive message to the ICC, ECB, and especially to those advocating for a boycott.

Thank you,
Shukrullah Ludin