Cricket Australia has cleared transgender cricketer Anaya Bangar to play community women's cricket across all Australian states and territories.
The decision marks a significant step for Bangar, the daughter of former India cricketer Sanjay Bangar, as she returns to the sport in a professional capacity within the Australian system.
Bangar is permitted to compete in community cricket, specifically women's Premier cricket, effective immediately [2]. This initial clearance allows her to integrate into the local competitive landscape before transitioning to higher levels of the game.
According to Cricket Australia, Bangar will become eligible to compete in elite women's cricket starting in March 2027 [1]. This timeline establishes the window for her potential entry into professional leagues, such as the Women's Big Bash League.
Officials said the decision was not affected by recent policy amendments regarding eligibility [5]. The ruling provides a structured pathway for Bangar to move from community-level play to the elite tier over the next several months.
Bangar's return to the sport follows her transition and a period of navigating the regulatory requirements of international cricket bodies. By granting immediate access to Premier cricket, the governing body allows her to maintain match fitness and form while awaiting her elite eligibility date in March 2027 [1].
“Anaya Bangar has been cleared by Cricket Australia to play community women’s cricket across Australia now.”
This ruling establishes a phased integration process for transgender athletes in Australian cricket, separating community-level participation from elite professional competition. By setting a specific date for elite eligibility, Cricket Australia is applying a transition period that balances inclusive participation with the regulatory frameworks governing professional women's sports.
