Scotland halts bilateral cricket matches with Afghanistan over rights concerns

Cricket Scotland said on Monday it will suspend bilateral cricket fixtures with Afghanistan outside ICC-organized events, responding to concerns about the treatment of women and girls and broader human rights issues in the country.

The Scottish cricket board's decision marks a significant step in the ongoing international scrutiny of Afghanistan's cricket programme since the Taliban's return to power in 2021. The move reflects growing pressure on sports organizations to address human rights allegations in their engagement with the Afghan cricket authorities.

Under the new policy, Cricket Scotland will only face Afghanistan in matches organized through the ICC's multilateral tournament structure, such as World Cups and continental championships. The organization said the suspension of bilateral fixtures would remain in place pending improvements in human rights conditions.

The decision joins similar actions taken by other cricket boards considering their engagement with Afghanistan. It underscores tensions between the international cricket community's inclusive ethos and concerns about legitimizing a government with documented restrictions on women's participation in public life.

Cricket remains one of Afghanistan's most popular sports, and the national team continues to compete in ICC events. However, Cricket Scotland's move signals that individual cricket boards are prepared to take unilateral measures regarding bilateral engagement based on human rights considerations.