The International Cricket Council (ICC) has reinstated Sri Lanka’s membership, allowing their participation in bilateral cricket matches and ICC tournaments after a recent suspension due to violating autonomy requirements. The suspension terms were formalized by the ICC Board following a hearing from Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC).

In a significant development, the ICC has officially approved new gender eligibility regulations for international cricket after a comprehensive 9-month consultation process with key stakeholders. The regulations prioritize safeguarding the integrity of women’s cricket, ensuring safety, and promoting fairness and inclusion. Under these rules, individuals assigned male at birth who have undergone male puberty will be ineligible for international women’s cricket, regardless of any gender reassignment treatments or surgeries.

Also Read: ICC Suspends Sri Lanka Cricket Board for Breach of Obligations

The ICC Medical Advisory Committee, led by Dr. Peter Harcourt, spearheaded the thorough review of these regulations. It’s crucial to note that this review specifically addresses gender eligibility in international women’s cricket, and individual Member Boards maintain authority over gender eligibility at the domestic level, subject to local legislation. The implemented regulations will undergo a comprehensive review within a two-year timeframe.

ICC Chief Executive Geoff Allardice emphasized that these changes are the result of an extensive consultation process, grounded in science and aligned with core principles. While inclusivity is crucial in sports, the primary focus is on safeguarding the integrity of international women’s cricket and ensuring player safety.