Pregnant Deepika Padukone Calls ICC’s Maternity Return Rules a ‘Landmark Moment’… But Why This Policy Is Being Called a Game-Changer in Sports?

Mumbai: In a moment that has sparked widespread appreciation across both the film and sports world, Bollywood actor Deepika Padukone has hailed the International Cricket Council (ICC) for introducing its newly structured maternity return-to-play guidelines for women athletes.

The actress, who is currently expecting her second child with husband Ranveer Singh, shared her reaction on her Instagram Stories, describing the initiative as a “landmark moment for women in sport.”

The ICC’s updated policy is designed to support women cricketers returning after pregnancy, offering a clearer, more structured framework that focuses on fitness recovery, medical guidance, and gradual reintegration into competitive cricket. The move is being widely seen as a progressive step toward making professional sport more inclusive for women athletes.

ALSO READ : “Beta, Surgery Kyun Karni Hai?”: Akansha Ranjan Kapoor opens up on freezing her eggs, reveals parents’ emotional reaction

Reacting to the development, Deepika’s message was short but powerful—emphasizing how such reforms can redefine career longevity for women in sports. Her endorsement has added significant visibility to the announcement, given her strong influence both in India and globally.

The governing body of cricket, International Cricket Council, has been working in recent years to improve women’s participation and welfare in the sport. This latest policy is expected to help athletes balance motherhood and professional commitments without being forced to choose between the two.

Fans and sports commentators have also welcomed the move, calling it a necessary and long-overdue reform in women’s cricket. Many believe it could set a benchmark for other sporting bodies worldwide.

As conversations around gender equality in sports continue to grow, Deepika’s public appreciation has further amplified the significance of ICC’s decision—turning it into more than just a policy update, but a cultural shift in how motherhood and professional sports are viewed together.