Jay Shah says motherhood doesn’t have to end cricket careers as ICC introduces new guidelines Cricket News:

NEW DELHI: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has introduced new Return to Play Post-Pregnancy Guidelines to help women cricketers safely resume their careers after giving birth. The move comes as more players choose to balance professional cricket with motherhood, with the ICC aiming to strengthen support systems and player welfare. ICC chairman: Jay Shah emphasized the importance of ensuring that women do not have to choose between family and sport.“The continued development of women’s cricket must be built on the opportunity, inclusion and care of 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,” she said in a statement. “The ICC’s Return to Play Post-Pregnancy Guidelines are an important step in creating a more supportive and informed environment throughout the game.“The guidelines provide member boards with a framework to develop policies tailored to local conditions. At the heart of the plan is the “6 Rs” model, Ready, Review, Restore, Recondition, Return and Refine, which includes recovery after birth, medical checks, training, match preparation and continuous monitoring after returning to competition.Recommendations also include flexible training schedules, childcare support, on-site feeding facilities and travel assistance where possible. The project is led by Australia team doctor Dr. Philippa Inge, who said the framework is meant to reassure players that motherhood does not have to end their cricket careers.West Indies spinner Afy Fletcher, who returned to international cricket after becoming a mother, hailed the initiative and called it one of the biggest steps taken for women’s cricket. He said the physical recovery was challenging, but being away from his son was tougher emotionally, adding that every player’s journey back to the game is different.Jay Shah added, “These Guidelines reflect our commitment to building a sport where women can thrive, both on and off the field.”