Anaya Bangar has hit back at South African cricketer Marizanne Kapp after Kapp criticised Cricket Australia’s decision to give Bangar a pathway back into women’s cricket. Kapp had called the decision “absolutely ridiculous” and said, “This should not be allowed.” Anaya Bangar, a transgender cricketer, was cleared by Cricket Australia to play community and Premier Cricket in Australia. This was established under its Inclusion of Transgender and Gender Diverse Players in Elite Cricket Policy. Her potential pathway to elite cricket, including the Women’s Big Bash League, remains subject to the policy’s requirements. 

Responding to the criticism, Bangar said, “I think people who want to raise their voice against it should actually educate themselves on this topic, and I've already provided the necessary information in terms of not having any unfair advantage, and also complying with the guidelines set by Cricket Australia.” She added, “If anyone's personal opinion is in that sort of way, I hope they go and educate themselves,” she shrugged. Bangar also said her eligibility had been assessed under Cricket Australia’s guidelines, rather than being granted automatically. The 25-year-old is currently focused on returning through community cricket and hopes strong performances can eventually help her earn a WBBL opportunity. Her clearance has reignited the wider debate surrounding transgender participation in women’s sport and the different eligibility policies used across cricket. 

“It’s been a rollercoaster”: Anaya Bangar opens up on her journey back to cricket ahead of clearance of playing community cricket in Australia

Anaya Bangar has also opened up about her difficult journey back to cricket after receiving clearance to play women’s community cricket in Australia. She also spoke about her disappointment with the BCCI’s response after approaching the Indian board about her eligibility. Bangar said the lack of communication was particularly painful and urged the BCCI to use her experience while developing policies for transgender participation in women’s cricket. 

“It is very disappointing and heartbreaking that I was served with silence,” Bangar said. She added, “I knew that transitioning was going to make me steer away from cricket...I hope that BCCI is open to this and tries to form policies surrounding this topic, since I'm the first case in India.” Bangar also offered to contribute to future policy discussions, saying, “I would be happy to be a part of the team and provide my insights and gatherings throughout my whole journey and what would work best for our country and women's sport in the future.” Reflecting on her personal journey, she said, “To be honest, transitioning was always about being happy and comfortable in my own skin. And I had to take the necessary steps during that time in my life to basically give up the sport that I loved. Go through major changes, go through major family dynamic changes and everything. ...And I couldn't be more grateful for this journey. It's been a rollercoaster, it's been brutal, it's been filled with emotions, but I'm glad I'm on the stepping stone now.”