Champions Trophy 2025: Afghanistan Skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi Backs Afghan Women To Play Cricket, Jos Buttler Expresses Concern Over Plight

Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi has shown support to Afghanistan women playing cricket however he said that the situation was something we cannot control. According to an Espncricinfo report, Shaidi said the focus for his side remained on what happened inside the ground.

He said, "Everyone likes to see everyone play. When it comes to politics and those things which we cannot control, we are only cricket players, we can control things in the ground."

"We are sportspersons. We control what we can do inside the ground and we can't worry about what's happening out of the ground. We play hard, we work hard, we have good net sessions. So that's what we're thinking of."

England captain Jos Buttler has expressed his and his team's deep concern over the challenges faced by women in Afghanistan but emphasized that they will proceed with their scheduled Champions Trophy clash against the Taliban-ruled nation. Buttler believes that sport has the power to bring hope, even in difficult times.

He said, "We are deeply saddened by the struggles of Afghan women and girls, but we believe that this match can serve as a symbol of hope and joy in difficult times. Sport has the power to unite people, and that’s what we want this game to do."

Since the Taliban's takeover in 2021, women's participation in sports has been completely banned, alongside severe restrictions on their access to education and employment. This led to a call from British lawmakers last month, urging England to boycott their fixture against Afghanistan in protest of the country's treatment of women.

England Pakistan battle in must win match

England finds itself in a must-win situation following their loss to Australia. They will also have their previous upset against Afghanistan in the 2023 ODI World Cup at the back of their minds as they take the field. Having lost to Australiua, the three lions wil be desperate to turn things around. Afghanistan who lost to South Africa in the opening fixture are also looking to keep themselves laive in the tournament.

(With PTI inputs)