UAE – June 30, 2025: The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has signed a landmark long-term strategic partnership with ITW MEA to organize and manage the Afghanistan Premier League (APL T20) for the next 10 editions. The agreement is a major step in reviving the APL as a top-tier T20 competition on the global cricket calendar.
ITW MEA, a UAE- and Africa-based company with a strong track record in media consulting, branding, digital marketing, and event execution, will partner with ACB to deliver a world-class league experience. ITW has previously collaborated with the ICC, ACC, and full-member cricket boards, bringing valuable expertise to this venture.
Joint council to oversee APL operations
The agreement was signed by ACB Chairman Mirwais Ashraf, CEO Naseeb Khan, and ITW MEA’s Director Vivek Chandra. A joint governing council will be formed, comprising members from ACB and ITW, to oversee operational decisions, including venue selection and execution planning for the league.
The ACB conducted an extensive Request for Proposal (RFP) process to identify a technically and financially capable partner. The year-long selection effort culminated in ITW MEA being awarded the strategic partnership, with ongoing board consultations throughout.
Leaders optimistic about APL’s future
ACB Chairman Mirwais Ashraf stated:
“The relaunch of the Afghanistan Premier League is a momentous achievement for Afghan cricket and its passionate fans. We are excited to work with a trusted partner like ITW. This is a major step forward, and official dates and venues will be announced soon.”
ACB CEO Naseeb Khan added:
“Reviving the APL has been a top priority. We chose ITW after thorough evaluation. This partnership is about building a competitive, high-quality league that benefits Afghan players and cricket as a whole.”
ITW sees APL as global opportunity
Vivek Chandra of ITW MEA shared his enthusiasm:
“We are honored to partner with ACB. Afghanistan’s rise in world cricket is inspiring, and this league can serve as a key platform for talent development and national pride.”
In August 2025, ACB and ITW will host a grand opening ceremony to announce the tournament window and venue, with global cricket figures, business leaders, and board representatives expected to attend. The event will also highlight progress by the Governing Council and plans for the upcoming edition.
This strategic partnership marks a new chapter for the APL T20, positioning it as a key fixture in the T20 landscape and a catalyst for Afghan cricket’s growth on the world stage.
