The International Cricket Council (ICC) has introduced new guidelines aimed at supporting women cricketers returning to the game after pregnancy and childbirth, marking a significant step toward improving player welfare in international cricket.

The ICC announced the framework during the ongoing Women’s T20 World Cup in England, outlining measures designed to help players, cricket boards, coaches, and medical teams manage the transition back to elite-level sport. The initiative focuses on ensuring that motherhood does not end a player’s professional cricket career.

The ICC guidelines include structured recommendations on physical rehabilitation, mental health support, gradual training plans, cricket-specific fitness programs, and continuous medical supervision. The framework also advises on childcare arrangements, access to feeding-friendly facilities at venues, flexible training environments, and travel assistance for players returning to competition.

ICC Medical Advisory Committee member and Australia team doctor Dr Philippa Inj said the initiative reflects a shift in thinking, emphasizing that childbirth should not mark the end of a female cricketer’s career.

The importance of the policy has been highlighted by several players who have successfully returned to international cricket after motherhood, including West Indies cricketer Stafanie Taylor and former Pakistan captain Bismah Maroof.

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