Rashid Khan could quit Big Bash after Australia cancel Afghanistan series

Cricket Australia announced on Thursday that they would not be taking part in three planned ODIs in March, taking a stance against the treatment of women and girls in the Taliban-ruled country.

Afghanistan is the only full member nation without an active women's team, due to restrictions imposed by the administration, with girls currently banned from middle and high school education, universities, gymnasiums and parks.

The International Cricket Council has said it is concerned about the situation in the country but Australia's unilateral decision to withdraw from the United Arab Emirates-based fixtures has met with a mixed response.

Rashid - one of the world's biggest white-ball stars and the current number0-one T20 bowler in the ICC rankings - has been a major draw in the BBL with Adelaide Strikers but has suggested he may pull out of future stints in the tournament as a result of the developments.

"Cricket! The only hope for the country," Khan tweeted. "Keep politics out of it."

He attached a longer note, which went on: "I am really disappointed to hear that Australia have pulled out of the series to play us in March. I take great pride in representing my country and we have made great progress on the world stage. This decision from CA sets us back in that journey.

"If playing vs Afghanistan is so uncomfortable for Australia then I wouldn't want to make anyone uncomfortable with my presence in the BBL. Therefore, I will be strongly considering my future in that competition."

A statement issued by Cricket Australia made it clear the withdrawal was based on moral rather than sporting reasons and had political support.