Trans Cricketers Express Disillusionment with Their Beloved Sport

Struggles of Trans Women in Cricket

For Amelia Short, Jamie Hughes, Alice*, and Anaya Bangar, women’s cricket was envisioned as a safe haven where they could express their authentic selves. However, this dream was shattered when the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) recently expanded a ban on transgender women and girls, pushing the restrictions from the top two tiers of domestic cricket down to the third tier and recreational levels.

While the ECB acknowledged the “significant impact” of this decision and promised to collaborate with recreational cricket boards to assist those affected, it has yet to reach out to any of the players.

Voices of Discontent

Short, a 20-year-old transgender woman who has been passionate about cricket since childhood, expressed her dismay. Despite enjoying her experience with the Lindow Cricket Club’s women’s first XI last season, she is currently contemplating quitting the sport altogether. “Cricket was a form of escapism for me… but now it feels taken from me,” she said. She revealed the decision has severely impacted her mental health, prompting thoughts of leaving sports entirely.

Hughes, 35, who started playing in her late 20s, faced difficulties after coming out as non-binary. After distancing herself from her previous team, she found a welcoming environment with the Birmingham Unicorns. Although she was eager to debut this season, she now mourns the lost opportunity to play with other women authentically. “I’ve lost the chance to play, which is devastating,” she expressed.

Concerns for Future Generations

Alice, another trans woman who has played over 250 matches, was ready to join a women’s team right before the ban was announced. Despite the support of her teammates, she is worried for younger trans players entering the sport. “It would not be difficult for sports organizations to revert to a case-by-case trans policy. It would just take courage,” she noted.

For Bangar, a former professional Indian cricketer, the inclusive nature of English cricket had provided a sense of safety during her recent return to the sport post-transition. She expressed relief in being back in India, stating, “Here, we aren’t facing the same bans as in the UK.”

*Name changed to protect identity