APL 2025: Afghanistan’s T20 Flagship Set for October Relaunch
After a six-year hiatus, the Afghanistan Premier League (APL) is poised for a comeback this October–November, with the tournament set to be hosted in the Middle East. The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has confirmed a 10-edition commercial partnership as part of its blueprint to revive and reposition the T20 league as a sustainable, top-tier competition.
In an interview with SportsBoom.co.za, ACB Chief Executive Naseeb Khan detailed the board’s strategic roadmap. “We now have a solid partner on board,” Khan said, referring to the ACB’s agreement with ITW MEA, a sports marketing agency operating across the UAE and Africa. “We’re better prepared both on and off the field. It’s the right time to relaunch APL with a stronger structure and long-term vision.”
Middle East Remains Preferred Host; Timing Favors Global Participation
The ACB is targeting the October-November window to avoid clashes with other T20 leagues and leverage ideal playing conditions in the region. The league will likely be staged in Dubai or another Middle Eastern venue.
“We had a very good window the first time, and we see the same now. Fewer leagues run during October-November, and the weather in Dubai or elsewhere in the Middle East is perfect for cricket. Everyone enjoys spending time there,” Khan noted.
Despite the APL’s years-long absence, optimism is high around attracting top global talent. “I don’t see any reason for international players not being part of the APL,” Khan said. “Just look at the first edition—some great players featured then. Our relationships with other boards are strong, and we’ve always issued NOCs to global players who participate in leagues worldwide.”
Leadership Stability Driving ACB’s Broader Growth Strategy
Afghanistan’s on-field rise has been propelled by consistency at the leadership level. “Jonathan Trott has now been head coach for over three years, and Hashmatullah Shahidi has led the team for five. Rashid Khan also continues to captain in key formats,” Khan explained.
“This continuity, along with support from the board, has helped bring clarity and unity to the team,” he added. Both Khan and ACB Chairman Mirwais Ashraf have had their terms extended by three more years, allowing them to execute longer-term goals. “It gives us the opportunity to complete the long-term goals we’ve set in motion.”
Rooted in Community, Backed by Players
Beyond the commercial relaunch, the APL is deeply tied to Afghanistan’s cricket culture. Many of the country’s top cricketers, including Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, and Naveen-ul-Haq, regularly feature in the domestic Shpageeza Cricket League and run community initiatives.
“That connection to home is our greatest strength,” Khan said. “Many of our players run welfare foundations and cricket academies in Afghanistan. They give back to their communities and never forget where they came from.”
This ethos of commitment has also translated into social responsibility. Afghan players have played visible roles during humanitarian crises and natural disasters, strengthening public goodwill.
Vision for the Future: International Cricket at Home
While the APL will be hosted abroad for now, the ACB remains hopeful about bringing international cricket back to Afghan soil.
“With continued improvements in security and support from the international community, I truly believe Afghanistan will host international cricket within the next three to four years,” Khan said.
The APL’s return is more than a sporting event; it is a statement of ambition, resilience, and national pride. With strong backing, a global platform, and deep local roots, Afghanistan aims not just to revive a league—but to reshape its cricketing legacy.
