Deepika Padukone Hails ICC’s New Post-Pregnancy Return Policy For Women Athletes Worldwide

Actor Deepika Padukone has welcomed the International Cricket Council's (ICC) newly introduced maternity return guidelines for women cricketers, describing the initiative as a significant step forward for women in sport. The actor, who is expecting her second child with husband Ranveer Singh, shared her support for the policy through a post on social media on Tuesday.

Taking to Instagram Stories, Deepika reposted an announcement highlighting the ICC’s official rollout of post-pregnancy return-to-play guidelines for women cricketers. Applauding the move, she called it a “landmark moment for women in sport” and praised the governing body for introducing measures aimed at supporting athletes as they balance motherhood and professional careers.

The ICC’s new guidelines are designed to provide greater clarity and support for female cricketers returning to competitive action after pregnancy. The framework is expected to strengthen player welfare standards and help athletes navigate the challenges associated with maternity and career continuity, an issue that has gained increasing attention across global sports.

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Deepika’s endorsement aligns with her long-standing advocacy for healthier workplace practices and better support systems for working mothers. In recent years, the actor has spoken publicly about the importance of maintaining a sustainable work-life balance and creating professional environments that prioritise physical and mental well-being.

The discussion around workplace conditions intensified last year following reports about her alleged exit from filmmaker Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s project Spirit. Subsequent media reports claimed that Deepika had sought shorter working hours and additional compensation for extended shifts. While the reports sparked widespread debate, they also renewed conversations about labour practices and flexibility within the entertainment industry.

Speaking in November last year, Deepika argued that eight-hour workdays are ideal for maintaining productivity and overall health. She said modern work culture often normalises overworking and mistakes burnout for dedication. According to the actor, individuals are able to perform at their best only when they are physically and mentally healthy, a perspective that complements her support for policies designed to protect and empower women in the workplace and in professional sport.

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