Melbourne [Australia]: In what can be seen as a landmark decision in women's cricket, Cricket Australia (CA) on Friday announced a new parental leave policy to support professional cricketers through pregnancy, adoption and their return to play. The policy will allow players who give birth or adopt to go into a transition of a non-playing role with up to 12 months of paid leave. It will also guarantee a contract extension in the following year.

"As a player, I am proud to be part of a game with such a comprehensive and fit-for-purpose parental leave policy. With the playing and travel demands on cricketers, I am pleased this policy provides support to players, so if they choose to, can both care for their child and participate in the game," Australian cricketer Alyssa Healy said in a statement.