New Delhi: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has launched new return-to-play guidelines after childbirth to help female cricketers resume their careers safely after childbirth. The move comes as more players choose to balance professional cricket with motherhood and the International Cricket Federation aims to strengthen support systems and player welfare. President of the International Chamber of Commerce Jay Shah Stressing the importance of ensuring that women do not have to choose between family and sport.He said in a statement: “The continued growth of women’s cricket must be based on opportunities, inclusion and care for our players at all stages of their lives and careers. No player should have to choose between motherhood and representing their country at the highest level.” “The ICC’s return-to-play guidelines after pregnancy are an important step towards creating a more supportive and informed environment throughout the game.“The guidance provides member committees with a framework for developing policies tailored to local conditions. The core of the plan is the “6R” model, namely Ready, Review, Restore, Recondition, Return and Refine, which covers postpartum recovery, physical examination, training, competition preparation and continuous monitoring after returning to the competition.The recommendations also include flexible training programmes, childcare support, feeding spaces at venues and possible travel assistance. The program is being led by Australia’s team doctor Dr Philippa Inge, who said the framework was designed to reassure players that motherhood would not necessarily end their cricketing careers.West Indies spinner Afi Fletcher, who is returning to international cricket after becoming a mother, has praised the move and called it one of the biggest steps women’s cricket has taken. She said the physical recovery was challenging, but being away from her children was even more difficult emotionally, adding that every player’s journey back to the sport is different.Jay Shah added: “These guidelines reflect our commitment to creating a game where women can thrive on and off the court.”
