Cricket Australia have confirmed the Australian ODI team will not make the trip to the United Arab Emirates for the scheduled three-game series against Afghanistan in March.
CA confirmed the decision on Thursday following ongoing discussions, which included input from the Australian Government.
The announcement follows the Taliban's new restrictions limiting the freedoms of women and girls in Afghanistan.
"CA is committed to supporting growing the game for women and men around the world, 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," a CA statement reads.
"We thank the Australian Government for its support on this matter."
Cricket Australia is committed to supporting growing the game for women and men around the world, 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. pic.twitter.com/cgQ2p21X2Q
— Cricket Australia (@CricketAus) January 12, 2023
The decision will mean Australia has forfeited the series, with all 30 ICC ODI Super League competition points being awarded to Afghanistan without a ball being bowled.
Australia has already secured their place in the 2023 World Cup in India, which will commence in October.
Australia are scheduled to face India (two series) and South Africa ahead of the World Cup this year to prepare for the tournament, tallying 11 ODIs between March and October.
