In Champions Trophy 2025, Cricket South Africa responds to sports minister’s call for Afghanistan boycott
Cricket South Africa (CSA) has responded to a call from Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie to boycott their upcoming match against Afghanistan in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. McKenzie’s advocacy stems from concerns over the Taliban’s ongoing suppression of women’s rights in Afghanistan, drawing parallels to South Africa’s apartheid history. He emphasized that ignoring the plight of Afghan women while condemning past injustices in South Africa would be hypocritical.
“As a man who comes from a race that was not allowed equal access to sporting opportunities during apartheid, it would be hypocritical and immoral to look the other way today,” McKenzie stated.
In its official statement, CSA acknowledged the abhorrent treatment of women in Afghanistan but clarified that decisions regarding participation in ICC events are governed by the International Cricket Council (ICC). CSA emphasized that the Champions Trophy is an ICC event, and any stance on Afghanistan should align with the governing body’s regulations.
CSA president Rihan Richards called for a coordinated approach among ICC members to address the issue, advocating for solutions that support women’s cricket in Afghanistan. As discussions continue, South Africa’s first match in the Champions Trophy is set against Afghanistan on February 21 in Karachi.