Ariana Television Network (ATN) has once again secured the rights to produce and broadcast this year’s exciting T20 cricket  tournament, the Kabul Premier League (KPL).

This comes after the successful inaugural KPL tournament in July last year. 

As with last year’s tournament, this year’s KPL will also be played at the Ayobi Sports Complex in Kabul. Dates will be announced soon.

ATN’s Deputy Managing Director & Director Sales & Acquisitions, Lutfullah Stanikzai, said on Sunday ATN’s involvement in the tournament is in line with the company’s commitment to the development of sports in the country. 

“ATN leadership is committed to the development of sports, and  will cooperate with Ayoubi Sports Complex officials so that citizens will be provided with sound entertainment and players, in different teams, will bring pride to Afghanistan.” 

Officials from Ayoubi Sports Complex were also thrilled to announce the exciting news and said the tournament will bring great excitement to cricket fans around the country as they will be able to tune in and watch the matches live. 

“Kabul Premier League will get underway [soon]. It will be the second season. ATN broadcast the last season’s matches live. It was a good tournament last year. There will be new innovations and greater excitement this year,” said Abdul Latif Ayoubi, head of Ayoubi Sports Complex.

While details of the tournament have not yet been released, ATN will keep fans updated on dates, teams and players, along with other information. 

Some cricket experts have however said they expect the league will follow the same or similar pattern as last year, although this year, six franchises will take each other on. 

These were Abaseen Defenders, Kabul Zalmi, Pamir Stars, Shaheen Hunters, Shamshad Eagles and Speenghar Warriors.

The trophy was lifted last year by Shaheen Hunters. 

The Kabul Premier League aims to not only promote cricket in the country but also serve as a platform for emerging talent to showcase their skills.

Ariana Television will broadcast the matches live, allowing cricket enthusiasts from around the country to witness the excitement and talent on display.

As with other leagues, each franchise will probably participate in a draft process to secure players. Once this is confirmed, Ariana Television and Ariana News will update fans. 

It is also expected that teams will play through the season with the top four moving on to the playoffs and then the finals. 

Last year, each team comprised 16 players and the tournament ran over eight days in July.

This latest development is one of a growing list of exciting sporting events that ATN hopes to broadcast this year for its loyal fans and supporters.

Currently, the thrilling IPL is being broadcast live in Afghanistan – so for fans who have not yet turned in, be sure to watch Ariana Television from Tuesday, April 2 at 6.30. 

In addition, remember to watch this space for announcements and updates on this year’s exciting home-grown KPL.