South Africa Sports Minister Joins Calls to Boycott Afghanistan Cricket Fixtures
South Africa’s Sports Minister, Gayton McKenzie, has joined calls for a boycott of Afghanistan’s participation in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan. McKenzie’s comments align with similar demands from British politicians, urging England to withdraw from their scheduled match against Afghanistan next month.
Calls for Action Against Afghanistan’s Suppression of Women’s Rights
The boycott appeals stem from widespread condemnation of the Taliban government’s rollback of women’s rights since their return to power in August 2021. South Africa and England are in Afghanistan’s group for the tournament, with South Africa set to open their campaign against Afghanistan in Karachi on February 21.
McKenzie strongly urged Cricket South Africa (CSA) to consider the moral implications of honoring the fixture, stating:
“Cricket federations and the ICC must think carefully about the message they are sending, especially to women in sports. If it were my decision, South Africa would not participate.”
Drawing parallels to South Africa’s apartheid history, McKenzie emphasized:
“As someone who experienced racial discrimination in sports during apartheid, it would be hypocritical to ignore the suppression of women’s rights in Afghanistan today.”
Cricket South Africa’s Stance
In response, CSA issued a statement condemning Afghanistan’s treatment of women while emphasizing their reliance on ICC guidance:
“CSA finds the suppression of women’s rights in Afghanistan abhorrent. However, as the Champions Trophy is an ICC event, decisions on Afghanistan’s participation must be led by the global body.”
The statement also highlighted the need for a “unified and collective approach from all ICC members.”
International Pressure Grows
More than 160 British politicians have signed a letter urging the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) to boycott England’s match against Afghanistan in Lahore on February 26. ECB Chief Executive Richard Gould echoed CSA’s sentiments, emphasizing the importance of a coordinated response from all ICC members.
Australia, also scheduled to face Afghanistan on February 28, has faced criticism for inconsistent actions. Cricket Australia canceled a bilateral T20 series against Afghanistan in March 2024, citing deteriorating women’s rights under Taliban rule, but later competed against Afghanistan in the 2023 World Cup and the 2024 T20 World Cup.
A Divisive Issue
The issue has reignited debate about the role of sports in addressing human rights violations. While some, like McKenzie and British lawmakers, call for immediate action, others advocate for a unified ICC-led resolution. With matches fast approaching, the cricketing world remains divided on how to respond to Afghanistan’s participation in international cricket.
