NEW DELHI: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has introduced new Post-Pregnancy Return to Play Guidelines to help female cricketers safely resume their careers after giving birth. The move comes as more players choose to balance professional cricket with motherhood, with the ICC aiming to strengthen support systems and player welfare. The president of the ICC Jay Shah stressed the importance of ensuring that women do not have to choose between family and sport.“The continued growth of women’s cricket must be built on opportunity, inclusion and care for our players at every stage of their lives and careers. No player should have to choose between motherhood and representing their country at the highest level,” she said in a statement. “The ICC’s Post-Pregnancy Return to Play Guidelines are an important step towards creating a more supportive and informed environment throughout the game.“The guidelines provide member boards with a framework for creating policies tailored to local conditions. At the heart of the plan is the “6 Rs” model, Ready, Review, Restore, Recondition, Return and Refine, which covers recovery after birth, medical checks, training, match preparation and continued monitoring after returning to competition.Recommendations also include flexible training schedules, childcare support, on-site catering facilities and travel assistance where possible. The project was spearheaded by Australia’s team doctor, Dr. Philippa Inge, who said the framework is intended to reassure players that motherhood does not have to end their cricket career.West Indies spinner Afy Fletcher, who returned to international cricket after becoming a mother, praised the initiative and called it one of the biggest steps taken for women’s cricket. She said the physical recovery was a challenge, but being away from her child was emotionally tougher, adding that every player’s journey in the sport is different.Jay Shah added, “These Guidelines reflect our commitment to building a game where women can succeed, both on and off the field.”
