ICC launches post-pregnancy guidelines for female players' return to top-level cricket

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has launched 'Return to Play Post-Pregnancy Guidelines' for female cricketers, outlining a framework for member boards to support players through pregnancy, childbirth and return to elite cricket.

The guidelines recommend boards appoint a dedicated case manager for each player, provide flexible training environments, childcare and travel support, and ensure access to medical and wellbeing services throughout pregnancy and postpartum. The move comes amid growing professionalisation of women's cricket, with more players choosing to start families during their careers.

Developed by the ICC Medical Advisory Committee and led by Australia women's team doctor Dr. Philippa Inge, the guidelines help member boards create their own policies in accordance with local legislation while prioritising player welfare.

The framework includes a six-stage return-to-play model: Ready, Review, Restore, Recondition, Return and Refine.

Key recommendations:

• Appointment of a dedicated case manager (doctor or physiotherapist) as primary point of contact
• Regular player management meetings at key stages: pregnancy announcement, third trimester, six to eight weeks after childbirth, and four-week intervals during reintegration
• Multidisciplinary support team including medical staff, physiotherapists, strength and conditioning coaches, psychologists, dieticians, coaches and family support networks
• Decision to announce pregnancy rests entirely with the player
• Boards should not mandate pregnancy testing
• Exercise during pregnancy encouraged but training and competition decisions should be individualised
• Players should cease competing after first trimester, but no fixed gestational age

Dr. Inge said: "The guidelines are designed to show players that having a baby doesn't need to be the end of their career. The aim has been to make them adaptable for the unique environments in which our Members need to use them."

West Indies spinner Afy Fletcher, who returned after giving birth in 2021, welcomed the move: "It gives you a chance to have your family and then return. That's one of the best things they could have done for women's cricket."