Cricket Australia (CA) on Thursday announced its decision to withdraw from their ODI series against Afghanistan, which was set to be played in March. The decision was taken after the Taliban imposed further restrictions on women's rights. In their released statement, CA announced that they took the call after 'extensive consultation'.
"This decision follows the recent announcement by the Taliban of further restrictions on women's and girls' education and employment opportunities and their ability to access parks and gyms," Cricket Australia said in a statement.
"CA is committed to supporting growing the game for women and men around the world, including in Afghanistan, and will continue to engage with the Afghanistan Cricket Board in anticipation of improved conditions for women and girls in the country.
"We thank the Australian government for its support on this matter."
The decision received a severe backlash from Afghanistan cricketers. After cricketer Naveen-ul-Haq announced that he has pulled out of the Big Bash League after CA's move, veteran T20 cricketer Rashid Khan now has released a statement where he expressed his disappointment and revealed that he is 'seriously considering his BBL future'.
"... The decision from CA sets us back in that journey. If playing vs Afghanistan is so uncomfortable for Australia then I wouldn't want to make anyone uncomfortable with my presence in BBL. Therefore, I will be strongly considering my future in that competition", Rashid Khan said in a statement.
Notably, Rashid Khan represents Adelaide Strikers in the Big Bash League. He is currently leading MI Cape Town in SA20, which started on January 10.