Australia has decided to pull out of a three-match One-Day International (ODI) series against Afghanistan men scheduled for March 2023 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) due to the Taliban government's restrictions on women's sports and outdoor activities in their country.
Cricket Australia had previously stated that it was reconsidering its decision to play Afghanistan in the ODI series following the Taliban's takeover of power in the country last year.
"Following extensive consultation with relevant stakeholders, including the Australian Government, Cricket Australia has decided that the upcoming ICC Super League three-match Men's ODI series between Australia and Afghanistan scheduled for the UAE in March 2023 cannot proceed at this time," Cricket Australia said on Thursday.
This decision follows the Taliban's recent announcement of additional restrictions on women's and girls' education and employment opportunities, as well as their ability to access parks and gyms, Cricket Australia said in a statement.
"CA is committed to growing the game for women and men worldwide, 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," Cricket Australia stated.
CA also expressed gratitude to the Australian government for its assistance in this matter.
Australia has backed out of a tour for the second time in the last two years.
Australia had pulled out of its tour of South Africa in February and March 2021 because of coronavirus concerns. The teams were due to play three Tests, subject to bio-secure protocols being agreed upon. Cricket Australia said it had "no choice" because of the situation in South Africa, where a more contagious variant of the virus was reported at that time.