ICC’s ‘Return to Play Post-Pregnancy’ guidelines | Explained

The International Cricket Council has introduced new guidelines to support female cricketers returning to the sport after pregnancy and childbirth. The framework includes a '6 Rs' approach covering physical, psychological, and practical considerations like childcare and flexible communication.
Why it matters
This initiative sets a global standard for professional sports organizations to better support athlete welfare and career longevity for women.
The story so far: The International Cricket Council (ICC) on June 22, 2026 announced a framework to assist women players who are returning to the sport after pregnancy and child birth. The Return to Play Post-Pregnancy Guidelines can be used by the boards of member countries of the ICC to design their own policies in line with local laws for the welfare of the cricketers.
The article provides a factual, neutral overview of policy guidelines without taking a political stance.
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