Hope they go and educate themselves: Anaya Bangar on Kapp and other critics

Indian trans athlete Anaya Bangar has responded to veteran South African cricketer Marizanne Kapp's criticism of Cricket Australia's decision to allow Bangar a pathway back into women's cricket. Kapp deemed the move "absolutely ridiculous" in a recent social media post.

Bangar is set to participate in the Women's Big Bash League (WBBL) in March, provided her testosterone levels stay within the prescribed limits. However, she has not yet signed up for a local club team. Anaya explained to PTI that she has provided all necessary information regarding her eligibility, adhering to the guidelines set by Cricket Australia. She hopes those disagreeing with her decision will take the time to educate themselves on the topic.

Anaya's father, Sanjay Bangar, was a former India all-rounder and once coached the men's team. She previously played age-group cricket for Mumbai alongside Test-capped players Sarfaraz Khan and his brother Musheer Khan. Bangar underwent gender-affirming surgery in March 2023.

Kapp's criticism of the decision to allow trans athletes in women's cricket gained traction on social media. In June, Bangar had reached out to Cricket Australia, who subsequently granted her clearance to play women's community cricket in Australia. CA's 'Transgender and Gender Diverse Players in Elite Cricket Policy' requires a player's serum testosterone to be below 10 nmol/L for at least 12 months to be eligible to play. If Bangar meets this requirement by March 2027, she will be eligible to participate in the WBBL.