The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) announced the commencement of the country’s premier T20 domestic cricket league on Monday. The tournament marks its first participation since the Taliban’s return to power. Several top stars will also be appearing as the tournament progresses.
The first match took place at Kabul Cricket Stadium between the reigning champions Speenghar Tigers and Band-e-Amir Dragons and it was witnessed by an enthusiastic crowd of spectators.
The captain of Afghanistan’s T20 team and a star spinner Rashid Khan was slated to lead the Speenghar Tigers but was unable to participate in the opening match.
According to an ACB source, Rashid and other prominent stars are currently engaged in international leagues in countries such as the United Kingdom and Canada, but are expected to join the tournament at a later stage.