New Delhi:
The transgender women players have been banned from participating in the women’s internationals of this year. Rugby League cited that they are developing “comprehensive inclusion policy” and the decision of transgender athletes’ participation can only be cleared after the formation of policy. This decision of ban has come a day after international swimming banned their transgender players and placed them in an “open category.”
The decision of Rugby international now restricts transgender players from participating in this year’s Women’s Rugby League World Cup in England to be played this November.
Inclusion Policy formulation for 2023
The Rugby League authorities have said that they need to further consult with the other nations taking part in the World Cup and formulate a policy that can clear the air on this matter. The authorities feel that the these players can have “disproportionate advantage” over other and thus, they need to take them in account to maintain the dignity of the game.
“The IRL reaffirms its belief that rugby league is a game for all and that anyone and everyone can play our sport. The sport said it had a responsibility to balance each player’s right to take part against the perceived risk to other players “and to ensure all are given a fair hearing,” said a statement from the 13-a-side game’s governing body, the International Rugby League.
Earlier, swimming governing body had out transgender woman in a separate category citing that they may have extra advantage. Though, FINA has cleared that male-to-female transgender athletes can only participate in women’s category if they had not experienced any part of male puberty.
“Medical committee found that males acquired advantages in puberty, including in the size of their organs and bones, that were not lost in hormone suppression,” said FINA in a statement.
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