Security plans in place for any Afghanistan protests
Cricket Ireland has put security arrangements in place for its forthcoming five-match one-day international series against Afghanistan, amid the possibility of protests over the Taliban’s treatment of women and girls. The series has drawn criticism because women’s participation in sport has effectively been banned in Afghanistan, raising concerns that the fixtures could be used to improve the Taliban’s image.
The first two matches will take place at Bready next Wednesday and Friday, followed by three at Stormont on 10, 12 and 15 August. Cricket Ireland says it has worked with stakeholders including the PSNI, which said peaceful protest would be protected but unlawful or seriously disruptive activity could prompt proportionate action. Amnesty International urged organisers, players and the ICC to highlight Afghan women’s rights and prevent the series becoming propaganda for the Taliban.
- Security plans cover possible protests during Ireland’s Afghanistan series.
- Critics cite Taliban restrictions on Afghan women and girls.
- Police will facilitate peaceful protest but address unlawful disruption.
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Cricket Ireland is the body that runs the sport in Ireland, while the International Cricket Council (ICC) governs cricket internationally. Afghanistan’s national team is due to play a series of one-day international matches in Northern Ireland, a format in which each side has a set number of overs.
The fixtures have prompted concern because women and girls in Afghanistan have been barred from taking part in sport under Taliban rule. Critics say hosting the team could help improve the Taliban’s image, while campaigners including Amnesty International have called for attention to Afghan women’s rights.
Both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Supporting the series allows for continued international engagement and provides a platform that could encourage dialogue and gradual change. Withdrawing from sports engagement punishes ordinary Afghan cricketers and reduces opportunities for cultural exchange that might foster understanding. With appropriate security measures and a commitment to highlighting women's rights issues, the event can proceed responsibly without necessarily serving as propaganda.
The case against
Hosting the series risks legitimising and providing positive publicity to a regime systematically oppressing women and girls, particularly in sport. By proceeding with the matches, Cricket Ireland and the ICC risk appearing complicit in sportswashing—allowing a repressive government to improve its international image whilst maintaining discriminatory policies. Organisations committed to women's equality have a responsibility to withdraw support for events that could indirectly strengthen such a regime.