麻豆约拍

Since the Taliban returned to power in Afghanistan in 2021, women have been removed from nearly all areas of public life. Recently, the Australia men鈥檚 cricket team reacted to the restrictions on women and girls in the country by withdrawing from an upcoming men's one-day series in March.

But even before the change of rule, attitudes towards women playing sport in Afghanistan were less than favourable.

Three Afghan sportswomen who had to flee their country following the takeover tell their story. Najma, who lives in the UK and plays football, Sima who is in Denmark and loves climbing, and Roya who lives in Canada and plays cricket, describe what it was like trying to pursue their dreams at home, and the hopes and worries they have for Afghanistan and the women living there now that they鈥檝e left the country.

(Photo: Najma in the UK)