New Delhi: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has introduced new Post-Pregnancy Return to Play Guidelines to help women cricketers resume their careers after giving birth. The move comes as more players are choosing to balance professional cricket with motherhood, with the ICC seeking to strengthen support systems and player health. President of the ICC Jay Shah emphasized the importance of ensuring that women do not have to choose between family and sports.“The continued growth of women’s cricket must be built on opportunities, inclusion and care for our players at every stage of their lives and careers. No player should have to choose between women and representing his country at the highest level,” he said in a statement. “The ICC’s Return to Play Post-Pregnancy Guidelines are an important step in creating a supportive and informed environment for all sports.“These guidelines provide member boards with a framework to develop policies that are relevant to local conditions. At the heart of the process is the “6 Rs” model, Preparation, Repetition, Recovery, Recovery, Return and Rehabilitation, which involves post-natal recovery, medical examination, training, match preparation and monitoring of continuity after returning to the competition.The recommendations also include flexible training schedules, childcare assistance, catering facilities and travel assistance where possible. The work was led by the doctor of the Australian team, Dr. Philippa Inge, who said the policy is to reassure players that motherhood does not have to end their cricketing career.West Indies all-rounder Afy Fletcher, who returned to international cricket after becoming a mother, hailed the feat and called it one of the biggest achievements in women’s cricket. He said the physical recovery was difficult, but being away from his son was more difficult mentally, adding that every player’s journey back to the game is different.Jay Shah added, “These guidelines reflect our commitment to creating a sport where women can excel, both on and off the field.”
