From Anaya Bangar to Imane Khelif: The biggest transgender debates in sport
The inclusion of transgender athletes in sports continues to be a contentious issue, highlighted by Cricket Australia's decision to allow Anaya Bangar to compete in women's community cricket. This move contrasts with the IOC's stricter eligibility requirements for the 2028 Olympic Games.
Why it matters
The debate reflects a global struggle to balance inclusivity with competitive fairness in sports, leading to fragmented policies across different organizations.
NEW DELHI: Anaya Bangar's return to cricket has opened a much bigger conversation about transgender athletes in sport, one that now extends far beyond the cricket field.The former Mumbai Under-19 cricketer has received clearance from Cricket Australia to play women's community cricket in the country, giving her a route back into competitive cricket after beginning her transition in 2022. Bangar can participate in Premier Cricket, which Cricket Australia classifies as community cricket, immediately. Her pathway to elite cricket from March 2027, however, comes with eligibility conditions, including a requirement to provide a blood test confirming that her serum testosterone remains below the prescribed threshold and that she continues to meet the governing body's policy requirements.The decision has already divided opinion.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in