Sport
Afghanistan announces dates for T20I Tri-Nation Series against Pakistan and UAE
The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has officially announced the dates for a T20I Tri-Nation Series featuring Afghanistan, Pakistan, and host United Arab Emirates (UAE). The tournament will take place at the iconic Sharjah Cricket Stadium from August 29 to September 7, 2025.
Organized by the Emirates Cricket Board, the series will follow a round-robin format where each team will face the others twice in the group stage. The top two teams will advance to the final, scheduled for Sunday, September 7, making it a total of seven matches in the tournament.
This series comes just ahead of the 2025 ACC Asia Cup, set to begin on September 9 in the UAE, and will serve as a crucial preparation platform for all three sides.
ACB Chairman Mirwais Ashraf expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating: “We are delighted to join this high-quality tri-nation contest and extend our sincere appreciation to the Emirates Cricket Board for their generous initiative in organizing the series. Sharjah holds a special place in cricket history, and we are confident this tournament will offer excellent match exposure for all participating teams ahead of the Asia Cup.”
ACB CEO Naseeb Khan emphasized the tournament’s timing: “This series comes at a crucial time in our calendar. We’re looking forward to giving our players a chance to face strong opposition under competitive conditions. It will serve as a valuable build-up to the challenges of the Asia Cup and beyond.”
In the first match of the series, Afghanistan will face Pakistan,
Sport
Afghanistan national buzkashi falls short in Kokpar World Championship semifinals
Afghanistan’s national buzkashi team was eliminated from the Kokpar World Championship after losing 4–2 to Uzbekistan in the semifinals on Friday.
The defeat prevented the Afghan team from reaching the final, ending their hopes for the tournament title.
Earlier in the tournament, Afghanistan had secured victories over Hungary, Mongolia, and Russia, showcasing strong performances in the opening rounds.
The international Kokpar competition was hosted in the city of Turkistan, Kazakhstan, bringing together top teams from around the world.
Sport
FIFA sanctions Israeli Football Association over discrimination violations
The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has sanctioned the Israel Football Association (IFA) for multiple breaches of its obligations as a FIFA member, following allegations of discrimination raised by the Palestinian Football Association (PFA).
The decision comes after the PFA submitted a proposal at FIFA’s 74th Congress, prompting the FIFA Council to mandate a formal investigation. The Committee found that the IFA violated Articles 13 and 15 of FIFA’s Disciplinary Code, covering offensive behaviour, breaches of fair play, and racist abuse.
As part of the sanctions, the IFA has been fined CHF 150,000, issued a formal warning, and ordered to implement a comprehensive prevention plan. The plan includes displaying a highly visible banner reading “Football Unites the World – No to Discrimination” at its next three home matches in A-level FIFA competitions. FIFA must approve the banner’s layout and placement before each game.
Additionally, one-third of the fine must be invested in anti-discrimination initiatives within 60 days, including reforms, protocols, monitoring, and educational campaigns across stadiums and official channels for a full season. The remainder of the fine must be paid within 30 days.
FIFA emphasized that football carries a responsibility to promote dignity, equality, and mutual respect, particularly during periods of conflict and division.
The IFA has been formally notified, and the decision has been published on FIFA’s legal portal. The ruling remains subject to appeal before the FIFA Appeal Committee.
Sport
Afghanistan national buzkashi team defeats Hungary 14–0
Afghanistan national buzkashi team secured a 14–0 victory over Hungary in its opening match of the 2026 International Kokpar Tournament in Kazakhstan.
The city of Turkestan in Kazakhstan is hosting the international Kokpar competition.
The tournament began on March 15 and will continue until March 21, 2026.
Teams from Afghanistan, China, Kazakhstan, Hungary, Mongolia, Uzbekistan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Turkey are participating in the competition.
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