ACB Locks In Afghanistan Premier League for 10 Years in Massive Deal
The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has made a landmark move by signing a 10-year agreement with sports management firm ITW MEA to relaunch and operate the Afghanistan Premier League (APL T20). The deal signals a renewed commitment to building a world-class T20 league similar to the IPL and PSL.
APL T20 Set for a Comeback
After a successful debut season in 2018 — where Balkh Legends clinched the title by defeating Kabul Zwanan — the tournament faced a long hiatus. Now, the ACB has announced that APL T20 will return with a 10-year hosting and management agreement.
As per a report by the Kabul Times, ITW MEA will oversee the execution of future APL T20 seasons, including tournament planning, team sponsorships, global broadcasting rights, and quality control.
The ACB confirmed the development via a social media post, stating that the league’s revival will offer Afghan cricketers a consistent, high-quality platform to showcase their skills.
A Strategic Step Forward
The signing ceremony was held in the UAE — a symbolic location given its role as Afghanistan’s home base for several years. ACB Chairman Mirwais Ashraf emphasized that this partnership will help popularize Afghan cricket globally and pave the way for a more competitive domestic structure.
“The APL is not just about cricket; it’s about giving our youth opportunities, boosting local talent, and showcasing Afghanistan’s cricketing potential on a global stage,” Ashraf noted.
Wakhan National T20 Cup 2025 in Full Swing
While the APL gears up for a grand return, domestic cricket in Afghanistan continues at pace. The Wakhan National T20 Cup 2025 kicked off on June 28 in Kunduz, featuring four teams:
- Maiwand Champions
- Hindukush Strikers
- Mahipar Stars
- Pamir Legends
Big names like Najibullah Zadran, Hazratullah Zazai, and Dawlat Zadran are among the star performers in the tournament. The final will be held on July 7, and the event is expected to unearth several exciting young talents.
With the APL T20 returning under a stable, long-term plan and domestic competitions running strong, Afghanistan cricket is entering a promising new era — one that could position it as a rising force in the global T20 landscape.
