From Exile to Advocacy: Afghan Cricketer Firooza Amiri Supports Iranian Footballers

Firooza Amiri, an opening batter for the Afghanistan national women’s cricket team, understands the profound disruption of displacement. Having fled the Taliban’s return to power in 2021 alongside many of her teammates, Amiri now offers support and solidarity to members of the Iranian women’s football team who have recently been granted asylum in Australia.

A Shared Experience of Displacement

Amiri, who was 18 years old when she was forced to leave Afghanistan, expressed her distress over the situation facing the Iranian footballers. Six members of the team were granted asylum in Australia, while others faced the difficult choice of whether to remain in a country under increasing geopolitical tension or return home. “I’m quite exceptionally upset and disappointed about what is happening right now in the country and with the women’s soccer team,” she told ABC Sport.

While fortunate to have left Afghanistan with her family, Amiri empathizes deeply with those who left their lives and families behind. “I have been going through this situation, I understand that it would be very hard when you say bye to your home and you know that you are not going to go back ever,” Amiri said. “It is like saying goodbye to your mum and not being able to see her again.”

Challenges of Building a Modern Life

Amiri recounted the difficulties of adapting to life in Australia as a young refugee, including language barriers, cultural differences, and the struggle to continue her education. “I was very young when I came here and the challenges I faced was not having friends … and the fact that I was not able to go to university or continue education because I was not able to speak English.”

Despite these obstacles, Amiri found solace and a sense of belonging through cricket. “Playing cricket was the only thing that connected me with the community in Australia,” she explained. “I find my sense of belonging through sport and through playing cricket.” She currently plays grade cricket in Melbourne and continues to represent the national side.

A Message of Hope and Resilience

Drawing on her own experiences, Amiri offered encouragement to the Iranian footballers, emphasizing the opportunities available in Australia. “Australia is such an amazing country, where you can be safe and live your life,” she said. “I can only say to them there is a brighter future here and you made the right decision, so just be proud of your choice and preserve playing the sport you love.”

She advised them to find strength and connection through their sport, just as she did. “If you feel any time that you’re missing home, just go find a soccer ground and play,” Amiri said. “I’m sure that soccer ground always will remind you who you are and why started doing this sport.”

Beyond the Field: Advocacy and Education

Amiri is now pursuing a university degree in journalism and politics and works as a women’s rights advocate, sharing her story in schools. She expressed her desire to connect with the Iranian women once they are settled in Australia, highlighting her deep connection to Iran, where she was born. “I have a very deep connection to Iran and I love Iran because I was born there,” Amiri said. “I would love to see them and meet them one day.”

The Brisbane Roar A-League club and Professional Footballers Australia are providing support to the Iranian footballers, offering training, community, and a safe space to continue their athletic careers. The club’s chief executive, Kaz Patafta, emphasized the importance of providing a sense of family and access to high-performance facilities.