Anaya Bangar, the 25-year-old daughter of former India all-rounder Sanjay Bangar, has been cleared by Cricket Australia to compete in community and Premier Cricket, with a potential pathway to elite women’s cricket from March 2027 onwards. The decision has drawn criticism from high-profile figures in women’s cricket, most notably South African all-rounder Marizanne Kapp.
“Absolutely ridiculous, this should not be allowed,” South African legend Kapp, who plays for Melbourne Stars Women in the Big Bash League, said about the news on her Instagram story.
Kapp’s criticism and Bangar’s response
Bangar has addressed the concerns raised by Kapp and others who have questioned Cricket Australia’s decision. She emphasises that she has complied fully with the governing body’s guidelines and maintains that her participation does not create unfair advantage.
“I think people who want to raise their voice against it should actually educate themselves on this topic, and I’ve already provided the necessary information in terms of not having any unfair advantage, and also complying with the guidelines set by Cricket Australia. If anyone’s personal opinion is in that sort of way, I hope they go and educate themselves,” Bangar was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times.
Cricket Australia’s eligibility framework
Before her transition, Bangar had played age-group cricket for Mumbai alongside Test batter Sarfaraz Khan and his brother Musheer Khan, and also represented clubs in England. She underwent gender-affirming surgery in March 2026, marking a significant personal milestone. After a long time away from competitive cricket, she announced her intention to return to the sport and pursue opportunities in Australia.
Cricket Australia’s eligibility framework for women’s elite cricket requires players to maintain serum testosterone concentration below 10 nanomoles per litre continuously for at least 12 months before competing at that level. Bangar’s pathway to elite women’s cricket from March 2027 onwards remains conditional on her meeting these requirements consistently. The policy represents the governing body’s approach to balancing inclusion with competitive standards in women’s sport.
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Bangar is currently in talks with cricket clubs as she prepares to resume her playing career at community level. She has not yet signed with a local club team but is actively seeking the right opportunity to begin playing. Her immediate focus is on establishing herself through club cricket performances, with potential progression to the Women’s Big Bash League if her form warrants selection.
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