Question to the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, whether she has had discussions with the England and Wales Cricket Board on the potential exclusion of players on the grounds of nationality.

We were concerned to hear of the reports on potential exclusion of players on the grounds of nationality and have discussed with the ECB directly who have put out a clear position confirming that nationality should not be a factor in the selection of players.

More generally, we are clear that cricket must be a sport that is inclusive and open to all. Last March, I attended the launch of the Chance to Shine 2025 Impact Report at the House of Lords. This highlighted how the power of cricket can play a significant role in transforming young people’s lives and its ability to reach into underserved communities.