England Cricket Team Rejects Afghanistan Boycott

More than 160 UK politicians, including notable figures like Jeremy Corbyn and Nigel Farage, have urged the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) to boycott an upcoming Champions Trophy match against Afghanistan on February 26, citing the Taliban's oppressive treatment of women and girls in Afghanistan. The ECB has maintained that it prefers a coordinated approach through the International Cricket Council (ICC) rather than unilateral action, with CEO Richard Gould advocating for collective action among cricketing nations. Although England has not played bilateral matches against Afghanistan due to the absence of a women's team, they have participated in global tournaments, which has raised ethical concerns. Prime Minister Keir Starmer supports the ECB's call for the ICC to enforce its rules regarding women's cricket. The political pressure highlights the ongoing debate about sports and human rights. The match will take place in Lahore, a city with a troubled history related to cricket and security.