Cricket fans in Afghanistan have reason to celebrate as the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has unveiled plans for a new
Twenty20 league. Tentatively named the Afghanistan Premier League, this tournament is slated to begin in the final
quarter of 2026. According to current projections, the matches will be held in the United Arab Emirates.
This isn't the first time the ACB has ventured into the realm of franchise-based T20 cricket. An earlier iteration of
the Afghanistan Premier League emerged in 2018. That initial effort, also featuring five teams, attracted considerable
attention, drawing in global stars like Chris Gayle, Brendon McCullum, and Shahid Afridi. However, that league faced
significant challenges, including payment disagreements and integrity concerns, which ultimately led to its
Looking ahead, the ACB anticipates holding the player draft for the new Afghanistan Premier League around June or July
"The inaugural season will showcase five city-based franchises, uniting Afghanistan's top national players alongside
distinguished international professionals and promising local talent," stated the ACB in a recent press release.
Mirwais Ashraf, the chairman of the ACB, spoke at the launch event in Dubai, emphasizing the league's potential impact.
"The Afghanistan Premier League signifies a vital step forward in our cricketing development," he said. "It unlocks
fresh opportunities for our athletes, serves as an inspiration for the next generation, and provides a platform to
showcase Afghan cricket on the world stage. We view the APL as an essential element in fostering the growth and unity of
the sport, both within Afghanistan and on an international level."
The ACB has entered into a partnership with Cricket Venture, a collaborative effort between Trans Group and ITW
Universe, to bring this league to fruition.
According to the press release, the next steps involve solidifying franchise identities, securing commercial
partnerships, and advancing the player auction or draft process.
Meanwhile, Afghanistan's domestic T20 competition, the Shpageeza Cricket League, continues to be held annually,
featuring five domestic teams competing during the July-August timeframe.