The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has revealed that no Transgender women will be allowed to take part in women’s and girls’ cricket at any level.

The decision comes in the wake of a ruling by the Supreme Court on the definition of a woman in equality law, and follows similar moves in football and netball.

The England Board has previously banned transgender women from participating in elite competitions, which brings it into line with the ICC‘s stance.

“With immediate effect, only those whose biological sex is female will be eligible to play in women’s cricket and girls’ cricket matches,” the ECB said in a statement. “Transgender women and girls can continue playing in open and mixed cricket.”

The board has not released data on how individuals might be affected but has pledged to work with those running the recreational game ‘to support people impacted by this change.’

“Our regulations for recreational cricket have always aimed at ensuring that cricket remains as inclusive a sport as possible. These included measures to manage disparities, irrespective of someone’s gender, and safeguard the enjoyment of all players.”

“However, given the new advice received about the impact of the Supreme Court ruling, we believe the changes announced today are necessary,” said the statement.

“We acknowledge that this decision will have a significant impact on transgender women and girls. We will work with Recreational Cricket Boards to support people impacted by this change in our regulations.”

“We await updated guidance from the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) and will study this carefully.”

“We maintain that abuse or discrimination has no place in our sport and are committed to ensuring that cricket is played in a spirit of respect and inclusivity.”