The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has introduced a new policy banning transgender women from women’s cricket at all levels, following a landmark UK Supreme Court ruling. The decision, which mirrors changes in other sports, has ignited a heated debate across the country.
Previously, transgender women could play in women’s cricket up to tier three of the domestic game and in recreational leagues, though they were already barred from the top two elite tiers. The new rules, effective immediately, extend this exclusion to all women’s and girls’ cricket, from grassroots to professional levels.
The policy shift comes after the Supreme Court ruled in April 2025 that the term “woman” in the Equality Act 2010 refers to biological sex, not gender identity. The decision stemmed from a case involving a transgender woman denied access to a women-only space, setting a legal precedent with far-reaching effects. Sports including football, netball, athletics, cycling, and rugby have since updated their own gender policies in response.
Reactions have been sharply divided. Supporters on social media argue the ban ensures fairness in women’s sport, with one user posting: “Biology matters in competition.” Critics, however, slam it as discriminatory. A spokesperson for a transgender rights group said: “This sends a clear message that trans women aren’t welcome in women’s sports, despite years of inclusion.”
The ECB defends the move as a legal necessity. “Following the Supreme Court ruling, we’ve aligned our eligibility rules with the definition of ‘woman’,” a spokesperson said. “We know this may disappoint some, but it’s vital to maintain the integrity of women’s cricket.” They stressed the policy isn’t meant to exclude, pointing out transgender women can still play in open and mixed categories, which are not gender-restricted.
The board also pledged to keep reviewing its approach. “We’re committed to an inclusive environment for all players and will work to ensure our policies balance legal compliance with accessibility,” the spokesperson added.