Transgender females barred from participating in women's cricket tournaments
Cricket authorities in England have banned transgender women from participating in female competitions, effective immediately. This decision comes after the UK Supreme Court's ruling in April that narrowed the definition of a woman under equality laws, stating it refers to "a biological woman."
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) stated that only those with female biological sex will be eligible for women's and girls' cricket matches. Transgender women and girls can still play in open and mixed cricket competitions.
The ECB believes that the changes are necessary due to new advice received following the Supreme Court ruling. They claim their regulations have consistently aimed to ensure cricket remains an inclusive sport. In the days to come, the ECB will work with recreational cricket boards to assist those transgender women and girls impacted by this change.
In a similar turn of events, England's Football Association barred transgender women from participating in women's football, effective June 1, 2025. The decision for both football and cricket is aimed at aligning with policies from FIFA and UEFA. Approximately 30 registered transgender women in English grassroots football are expected to be affected by this change.
Notably, the Scottish FA has also decided to prohibit transgender women from competing in the women's game. The Football Association of Wales is yet to make a decision, awaiting further guidance for the sports sector.
While campaigners welcomed the Supreme Court's ruling, Lord Hodge, who delivered the verdict, emphasized that the judgment was not intended to pit one group against another. The Equality Act 2010 protects transgender people, providing safeguards against various types of discrimination in their acquired gender, irrespective of holding a gender recognition certificate.
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The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has announced that only individuals with female biological sex will be eligible for women's and girls' cricket matches, following the UK Supreme Court's ruling on the definition of a woman under equality laws. Transgender women and girls can still participate in open and mixed cricket competitions. The ECB is planning to work with recreational cricket boards to support those transgender women and girls affected by this change.
The Football Association in England has also barred transgender women from participating in women's football, effective June 1, 2025, mirroring policies from FIFA and UEFA. This decision may impact approximately 30 registered transgender women in English grassroots football.
While the Equality Act 2010 in the UK protects transgender people, providing safeguards against various types of discrimination in their acquired gender, it is essential to note that the Supreme Court's ruling focused on biological sex in the context of sports.
