Ireland's Sarah Keane Appointed to ICC Afghanistan Task Force Ahead of ODI Series Against Afghanistan Cricket Ireland has announced that CEO Sarah Keane has been appointed to the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) Afghanistan Task Force, a move tied to the upcoming men’s One Day International (ODI) series against Afghanistan. The five-match series, set to begin on Wednesday, marks Ireland’s first ODI of 2026. The decision comes amid heightened scrutiny of the Taliban’s treatment of Afghanistan’s women’s cricket team, which has been forced to flee the country due to restrictions on women participating in sports. The ICC’s involvement in the task force underscores growing international concern over the situation in Afghanistan. Keane’s appointment follows discussions between Cricket Ireland’s leadership and the Afghan women’s team, which have been held in London. A spokesperson for the governing body stated that the Afghan women’s team has expressed a desire to use the attention generated by their men’s team’s matches to highlight the ongoing challenges faced by women in the country. The team has emphasized that their focus is on drawing global attention to the erosion of women’s rights rather than obstructing their men’s cricket activities. Cricket Ireland’s statement highlighted its commitment to supporting the displaced Afghan women’s team. The organization noted that Keane and Chair Brian MacNeice have been instrumental in advocating for the team’s interests at the ICC Board. This advocacy has led to the ICC’s decision to appoint Keane to the Afghanistan Task Force, which is tasked with ensuring continued funding for the Afghan women’s program, creating a clear pathway for their participation in ICC events, and providing ongoing support.#icc #cricket_ireland #sarah_keane #afghanistan_women_cricket_team #icc_afi_task_force
