The Shpageeza Cricket League, Afghanistan’s premier T20 cricket competition, is set to return for its ninth season, starting on August 12, 2024. The tournament will see intense cricketing action until August 25, with all matches being hosted at the Kabul International Stadium.
Overview of the Shpageeza Cricket League 2024
This year’s edition will feature five teams, reduced from the previous eight, due to scheduling changes and other logistical considerations. The teams competing for the title are Speen Ghar Tigers, Band-e-Amir Dragons, Amo Sharks, Mis Ainak Knights, and Boost Defenders.
Defending champions Speen Ghar Tigers, led by the formidable Rashid Khan, will be looking to retain their title. The competition promises to showcase some of Afghanistan’s best cricket talent, with matches scheduled to take place at 9:00 AM and 2:00 PM local time, ensuring cricket enthusiasts can enjoy back-to-back fixtures.
Key Players to Watch
Rashid Khan will captain Speen Ghar Tigers, bringing his international experience and T20 prowess to the forefront. Najibullah Zadran, the Player of the Series in 2022, will also be a key figure in the tournament, alongside Hashmatullah Shahidi, who was the top run-scorer last year. Qais Ahmad and Zia-ur-Rehman, who were the joint highest wicket-takers in the previous edition, will also be players to keep an eye on.
Full Schedule and Match Timings (Local Time)
Match 1: Monday, August 12 – Speen Ghar Tigers vs. Band-e-Amir Dragons, 9:00 AM
Match 2: Monday, August 12 – Amo Sharks vs. Mis Ainak Knights, 2:00 PM
Match 3: Tuesday, August 13 – Speen Ghar Tigers vs. Boost Defenders, 9:00 AM
Match 4: Tuesday, August 13 – Band-e-Amir Dragons vs. Amo Sharks, 2:00 PM
Match 5: Wednesday, August 14 – Boost Defenders vs. Band-e-Amir Dragons, 9:00 AM
Match 6: Wednesday, August 14 – Speen Ghar Tigers vs. Mis Ainak Knights, 2:00 PM
Match 7: Friday, August 16 – Amo Sharks vs. Boost Defenders, 9:00 AM
Match 8: Friday, August 16 – Band-e-Amir Dragons vs. Mis Ainak Knights, 2:00 PM
Match 9: Saturday, August 17 – Amo Sharks vs. Speen Ghar Tigers, 9:00 AM
Match 10: Saturday, August 17 – Mis Ainak Knights vs. Boost Defenders, 2:00 PM
Match 11: Sunday, August 18 – Amo Sharks vs. Boost Defenders, 9:00 AM
Match 12: Saturday, August 18 – Speen Ghar Tigers vs. Band-e-Amir Dragons, 2:00 PM
Match 13: Monday, August 19 – Amo Sharks vs. Mis Ainak Knights, 9:00 AM
Match 14: Monday, August 19 – Band-e-Amir Dragons vs. Speen Ghar Tigers, 2:00 PM
Match 15: Wednesday, August 21 – Band-e-Amir Dragons vs. Mis Ainak Knights, 9:00 AM
Match 16: Wednesday, August 21 – Speen Ghar Tigers vs. Amo Sharks, 2:00 PM
Match 17: Thursday, August 22 – Boost Defenders vs. Mis Ainak Knights, 9:00 AM
Match 18: Thursday, August 22 – Amo Sharks vs. Band-e-Amir Dragons, 2:00 PM
Match 19: Friday, August 23 – Speen Ghar Tigers vs. Mis Ainak Knights, 9:00 AM
Match 20: Friday, August 23 – Band-e-Amir Dragons vs. Boost Defenders, 2:00 PM
Final: Sunday, August 25 – 12:00 PM
What’s at Stake?
The Shpageeza Cricket League has grown in stature over the years, becoming a critical platform for Afghan cricketers to showcase their skills. With Speen Ghar Tigers defending their title, and all teams bringing their best to the field, fans can expect thrilling matches and new records. This year’s tournament is also an opportunity for emerging players to make their mark on a national stage, particularly in the absence of three teams, which could intensify the competition.
Whether you’re a die-hard cricket fan or a casual observer, the Shpageeza Cricket League 2024 is set to offer high-octane cricket action over the course of two weeks. Make sure to catch your favorite teams in action as they vie for the prestigious title in Afghanistan’s premier T20 cricket league.
