The policy is aimed at providing pathways for transgender people to play cricket under the gender they identify as, with an expert panel created to oversee this journey to an 'elite level'.

The move is a step in formalising CA's regulations regarding transgender inclusion, and comes in the wake of high-profile occurences in domestic and international sport, highlighting a lack of understanding in this area.

Kevin Roberts, CEO of Cricket Australia noted that one of the presiding issues - that transgender athletes may garner a sporting advantage - will be considered in the development of selection criteria.

“It doesn’t make any sense that today, people are discriminated against, harassed or excluded, because of who they are. And that’s not right. 

“Today we demonstrate our commitment to include people with an affirmed gender identity in the game at every level and ensure all people in our communities experience Australian cricket’s inclusive culture.

“As strength, stamina and physique are all relevant factors when competing in competitive sport, transgender and gender diverse players will be supported to participate in elite cricket, subject to certain criteria through the implementation of this policy."

Australian cricketer Megan Schutt insisted that regulation in this area would create a better outcome for all involved.

“Inclusion matters in every sense. Cricket Australia's vision is to be a sport for all, so everyone deserves to be included," she said.

“To have a policy and guidelines that includes transgender and gender diverse players will create a better environment for everybody to play the game.

“Now that we know that anyone who is transgender or gender diverse has a chance to play cricket at the highest level - and rightfully so - I'm confident that the elite cricket policy will provide a fair process for transgender and gender diverse cricketers to embark on that pathway.”