Photo Credit: Afghanistan Cricket Board
The Annual General Meeting of the Afghanistan Cricket Board was held yesterday, 11th January 2024 in Kabul. The meeting was chaired by ACB Chairman Mr. Mirwais Ashraf, which brought together all the board members to comprehensively discuss last year’s achievements and outline the plans for 2024.
A detailed presentation unfolded the organization’s activities, accomplishments, and challenges in 2023. This included financial reports, budget insights, international and domestic cricket achievements, and discussions on structural adjustments. The design process of the Kabul International Cricket Stadium in Alokhil area was also an important discussion point.
The financial health of the ACB took center stage, with a comprehensive presentation highlighting increased budgetary allocations. The discussion explored revenue streams from ICC and ACC, sponsorships, and the contribution generated from the home and away events and international tournaments.
A new player pathway in domestic cricket was introduced which includes the Discovery, Foundation, Development, and Elite phases. In addition, significant increases in domestic player contracts and match fees were proposed. Modifications to central contracts and incentives for outstanding performers in both domestic and international cricket were also discussed.
The High-Performance Center’s (HPC) pivotal role in capacity building and game development was also highlighted. The department’s objectives for the year 2024 included bridging the gap between domestic & international cricket, enhancing player performance, conducting talent hunts, and strategic capacity-building programs.
Progress in the design process for the Alokhil stadium was discussed. A committee has been assigned to oversee the proceedings. Multiple Local construction companies are engaged and the renowned sports architectural design firm “Populous” has been contacted, the representatives of which will conduct a free initial survey in Kabul and will also contribute to the funding proposals and meeting with donors and investors.
In addition, Afghanistan’s international cricket season for the year ahead including tours to India & Sri Lanka, and home events against Ireland, Bangladesh, New Zealand, Australia, and Zimbabwe as well as the team’s participation in the ICC and ACC events was thoroughly discussed by the board. Plans for domestic cricket, infrastructure development, and strategies to secure financial resources, promote the game across the country and maintain positive & productive ties with the stakeholders were discussed and proper mitigation plans have been put forward to address the available challenges.
Mr. Ahmad Khalid Hatam, Mr. Allah Dad Noori, Mr. Raees Ahmadzai, Mr. Obaidullah Sadarkhil, Mr. Rahmatulhaq Fuzail, Mr. Atilla Kamgar and Mr. Khan Jan Alokozai, attended the meeting; and in an agreed decision, approved the proposed modifications and expressed gratitude to the ACB Senior Management for its effective leadership and particular planning for the upcoming year.
The ACB Annual General Meeting is an annual event hosted by the Afghanistan Cricket Board. It is chaired by the ACB Chairman and is attended by the ACB CEO as well as board members, where activities and achievements of the previous years as well as goals for the coming years as discussed.
