Anaya Bangar Responds to Kapp’s Criticism on Trans Inclusion

Anaya Bangar has hit back at Marizanne Kapp’s fierce criticism of her bid to return to women’s cricket, telling the South Africa all-rounder – and others who share her view – to “educate themselves” on the realities of transgender inclusion in the sport.

Kapp had slammed Cricket Australia’s decision to open a pathway for Bangar back into elite women’s cricket, branding it “absolutely ridiculous” and insisting “this should not be allowed.” Her comments dropped into an already charged debate and put Bangar, 25, squarely in the spotlight before she has even joined a club side.

Cricket Australia recently cleared Bangar, daughter of former India international and coach Sanjay Bangar, to pursue a route back into top-level women’s cricket under its Inclusion of Transgender and Gender Diverse Players in Elite Cricket Policy.

Bangar underwent gender-affirming surgery in March this year and, under current rules, is eligible to play community cricket in any state or territory in Australia. A potential move into elite cricket from March 2027 will depend on her meeting all policy requirements, including the governing body’s medical and performance criteria.

The decision has sparked sharp reactions across the game. Some see it as a landmark moment for inclusion. Others, like Kapp, have framed it as a threat to the integrity of women’s sport.

Bangar has now answered that criticism head on.

“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,” she told PTI, delivering the message with a shrug rather than a shout.

“If anyone’s personal opinion is in that sort of way, I hope they go and educate themselves,” she added.

For now, the ambition is clear but the steps are small. Bangar wants to build towards the Women’s Big Bash League one day, yet she has not even signed with a local club. Her immediate aim is simple: play community cricket, stack up performances, and let the numbers – not the noise – shape what comes next.

Baby steps, as she puts it. But every one of them will be watched.