ICC launches post-pregnancy return-to-play guidelines for women cricketers

Indian womens team (Pic: PTI)

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has introduced its Return to Play Post-Pregnancy Guidelines, offering female players, member boards, coaches, and medical practitioners a structured framework to safely navigate the transition back to competitive cricket after childbirth.

According to an official ICC media release, these directives aim to facilitate this transition, reinforcing the governing body's dedication to player welfare and the global expansion of the women's game.

The health of female athletes stands as a core priority for the ICC under its broader "100 per cent Cricket" initiative, which focuses on educating teams and normalising vital conversations around women's health in sports. The new guidelines serve as a foundational blueprint for member nations to craft individualised pregnancy policies that align with local laws, the statement said.

The 6 R's framework for athlete rehabilitation

To ensure a structured and sustainable comeback, the guidelines present a specialised "6 Rs" roadmap: Ready, Review, Restore, Recondition, Return, and Refine. This protocol spans from initial postpartum recovery and medical evaluations to progressive training, cricket-specific drills, and continuous monitoring once back in full competition.

West Indies cricketer Afy Fletcher, a mother since 2021, currently playing in the Women's T20 World Cup 2026, praised the initiative.

"I think it's really good that the ICC is giving cricket boards policies to look after women after pregnancy," said Fletcher. "It gives you a chance to have your family and then return, so I think that's one of the best things they could have done for women's cricket."

ICC Chairman Jay Shah emphasised the need to protect the careers of female athletes.

"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 her country at the highest level." Jay Shah said.

"The ICC's Return to Play Post-Pregnancy Guidelines are an important step in creating a more supportive and informed environment across the game. By providing Members with practical guidance, we want to ensure that female cricketers are supported through pregnancy and empowered to return to cricket with confidence," he added.

(With ANI inputs)