Afghanistan Premier League Set to Launch in 2026
The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has officially confirmed the launch of a new franchise-based T20 competition, named the Afghanistan Premier League (APL). The much-anticipated tournament is scheduled to begin in the last quarter of 2026, with October being the tentative window. The league will feature five city-based franchises and is expected to be hosted in the United Arab Emirates, offering a neutral and stable venue for players and stakeholders. So Let’s take a look at Afghanistan Premier League Set to Launch in 2026.
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A Fresh Start for Afghanistan’s Franchise Cricket
While Afghanistan previously experimented with a franchise league several years ago, the upcoming APL marks a restructured and professionally planned restart. This time, the ACB aims to build a sustainable model with stronger governance, financial transparency, and long-term vision. The board has emphasized that lessons from past experiences have helped shape a more robust framework for the new league.
League Structure and Player Composition
The inaugural season will include five teams, each representing a city-based identity. These franchises will bring together:
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Afghanistan’s top national players
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Experienced overseas professionals
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Emerging local and domestic talent
A player draft or auction, expected around June–July 2026, will finalize team squads. The format is designed to provide young Afghan cricketers exposure to high-pressure matches alongside international stars, accelerating their development.
Strategic Partnerships and Commercial Planning
To ensure smooth execution, the ACB has partnered with Cricket Venture, a collaboration between Trans Group and ITW Universe. This partnership will oversee commercial operations, broadcasting strategy, and franchise development.
In the coming months, organizers will focus on finalizing franchise owners, team branding, sponsorship agreements, and broadcasting rights, laying the groundwork for a globally visible tournament.
Impact on Afghanistan Cricket
The Afghanistan Premier League is expected to play a key role in strengthening the country’s cricket ecosystem. With Afghanistan already producing world-class T20 players, the league will provide consistent competitive opportunities and financial stability for players. It will also complement the existing Shpageeza Cricket League, Afghanistan’s domestic T20 competition held annually.
Beyond cricket, the APL is seen as a platform to unite fans, promote Afghan talent worldwide, and further establish Afghanistan as a serious force in international cricket.
Conclusion
The launch of the Afghanistan Premier League signals a bold and optimistic chapter for Afghan cricket. With structured planning, global partnerships, and a focus on player growth, the APL has the potential to become a respected name in the global T20 landscape.
FAQs
Q1: When will the Afghanistan Premier League start?
The first season is planned for October 2026.
Q2: How many teams will participate in the APL?
Five city-based franchise teams will compete.
Q3: Where will the matches be played?
The tournament is expected to be hosted in the UAE.
Q4: Will overseas players be allowed?
Yes, international players will feature alongside Afghan cricketers.
Q5: How is this different from Afghanistan’s domestic T20 league?
The APL is franchise-based and international, while the Shpageeza League is a domestic competition.
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