Afghan Athlete Says Asylum-Seeking Iranian Women's Soccer Players in Australia Face Mental Pressures

Tauba Khan Savari, an Afghan female cricketer who fled to Australia after the Taliban takeover in 2021, said the five Iranian women's national soccer players granted humanitarian visas by Australia will likely face significant mental and emotional pressures, particularly due to separation from family and homeland.

Australia's government issued the visas on Tuesday to the players, who sought asylum fearing repercussions upon return to Iran after refusing to sing the national anthem during a match at the Asian Women's Nations Cup in Australia. Iranian state television labeled the team "traitors in wartime" for the incident, heightening security concerns.

One additional player and one support staff member initially accepted Australia's assistance, but one later decided to return to Iran. Australian police reportedly helped two other team members separate from government escorts to seek asylum, though one reversed the decision.

Savari, 25, living in Canberra where she studies and coaches cricket, drew parallels to her own refugee experience. "Being a refugee has many pains. Every day you miss your parents and family. Even the foods you ate in your country, you miss them all," she said. She added that life without family support can lead to depression and mental strain, and adapting to a new language and culture takes time.

Experts noted that continuing professional sports can help refugee athletes cope with confusion and anxiety. Catherine Ardoy, a lawyer and researcher who aided in resettling Afghanistan's women's cricket team in Australia, said the Iranian players could explore future options in local teams with legal and community support.

Australian Interior Minister Tony Burke addressed the case in parliament, mentioning striker Mohadeseh Zolfi.