Sport
Afghanistan Premier League set for comeback with new commercial deal
After a six-year break, the Afghanistan Premier League (APL) is set to return, backed by a long-term commercial partnership. The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) aims to relaunch the T20 league in October–November, likely in the Middle East, with hopes of attracting international stars and establishing a sustainable tournament model.
In an interview with SportsBoom.com. ACB CEO Naseeb Khan confirmed the 10-edition deal and said the board is “better prepared both on and off the field” for the relaunch.
Despite the APL’s absence, the ACB believes strong ties with other cricket boards and player-friendly policies will help draw global talent.
The tournament’s timing—during a quieter period in the T20 calendar—and ideal Middle Eastern weather add to its appeal.
“I don’t see any reason for international players not being part of the APL,” Naseeb 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.”
The league will most likely be hosted in Dubai or another Middle Eastern venue, and according to Naseeb, there are no major logistical hurdles at the moment.
Afghanistan’s cricketing rise has been fueled by leadership stability, with head coach Jonathan Trott and captain Hashmatullah Shahidi in their roles for several years. Khan and ACB Chairman Mirwais Ashraf have also extended their terms to continue long-term planning.
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.
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.
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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