ICC orders group to review cricket in Afghanistan

KABUL (Pajhwok): The International Cricket Council (ICC) Board announced on Wednesday it had appointed a working group to review the status of the Afghanistan Cricket Board and the game in light of recent governmental changes in the country.

The group comprises Imran Khwaja (chair), Ross McCollum, Lawson Naidoo and Ramiz Raja. It will report back to the UCC Board over the coming months. The ICC Board concluded yesterday, taking a number of key decisions.

ICC Chair Greg Barclay said: “The ICC Board is committed to continuing to support Afghanistan Cricket to develop both men’s and women’s cricket moving forward.

“We believe the most effective way for this to happen will be to support our members in their efforts to achieve this through its relationship with the new government.”

Barclay added: “Cricket is fortunate to be in the position to influence positive change in Afghanistan with the national men’s team a source of great pride and unity in a country with a young population that has experienced more upheaval and change than most.

“We should protect that status and continue to try to influence change through the ACB but will continue to closely monitor the situation and take any decisions accordingly.”

Newly appointed Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) Chairman Mirwais Ashraf said they were committed to maintain effective relationships with new government and the world cricketing body.

“on ICC’s statement regarding Afghanistan: “Cricket is a source of aspirations, elations and hope of 35m Afghans. We are committed to maintain effective relationships with our new government, the @ICC and other cricketing nations.”

He added: “We are working to provide full assistance & assurance to the @ICC Board & its working group for Afghanistan about the situation in ACB. @ACBofficials thank them and are looking for their immense support with regards to the status & development of Afghan Cricket.”

nh/mud