The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is around the corner, but the tournament still remains surrounded with the controversies. Earlier, the BCCI denied travelling to Pakistan for the tournament. However, after a long discussion, both Pakistan and India agreed on a Hybrid Model. In the most recent controversy, the ECB has been called up on by more than 160 politicians to not play against Afghanistan in the Champions Trophy 2025. The match is scheduled to be played at Lahore, Pakistan on 26th February 2025. but the British have asked the ECB to avoid playing against Afghanistan. The main reason behind the British government denying the ECB to play against Afghanistan is the activities of Taliban in Afghanistan, especially the restrictions on women from playing the sports. MP Tonia Antoniazzi wrote a letter to England Cricket Borad (ECB) about this issue and it was signed by many members of UK's parliament. In the letter, Antoniazzi highlighted Taliban's action on women in Afghanistan and the way their rights have been violated. They feel that playing this match will send a wrong message about supporting the human rights. The letter stated: “We strongly urge the England men’s team players and officials to speak out against the horrific treatment of women and girls in Afghanistan under the Taliban. We also urge the ECB to consider a boycott of the upcoming match against Afghanistan, to send a clear signal that such grotesque abuses will not be tolerated." Also Read | Josh Hazlewood Ruled Out of Sri Lanka Tour Due to Injury ECB Condemns Afghanistan's Ban on Women's Sports ECB CEO Richard Gould responded to letter saying that the board stands by its principle but wants all the team to take the action on a single ground, rather than standing alone. He also said that the ICC members should take necessary steps for the upbringing of women's cricket, especially in Afghanistan. The Roar quoted Gould saying: “The ECB strongly condemns the treatment of women and girls in Afghanistan under the Taliban regime. The ICC Constitution mandates that all member nations are committed to the growth and development of women’s cricket. In line with this commitment, the ECB has maintained its position of not scheduling any bilateral cricket matches against Afghanistan." He added: “While there has not been a consensus on further international action within the ICC, the ECB will continue to actively advocate for such measures. A coordinated, ICC-wide approach would be significantly more impactful than unilateral actions by individual members.” Cricket as a source of hope for Afghans, said Gould: “We acknowledge and respect the diverse perspectives on this global issue. We understand the concerns raised by those who believe that a boycott of men’s cricket could inadvertently support the Taliban’s efforts to suppress freedoms and isolate Afghan society. It’s crucial to recognise the importance of cricket as a source of hope and positivity for many Afghans, including those displaced from the country.” He concluded saying: “The ECB is committed to finding a solution that upholds the rights of women and girls in Afghanistan while also considering the broader impact on the Afghan people. We will continue to engage in constructive dialogue with the UK Government, other stakeholders, the ICC, and other international cricket boards to explore all possible avenues for meaningful change.”