The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has officially announced the return of the Afghanistan Premier League (APL), a marquee franchise-based T20 tournament set to kick off in October 2026.
The announcement was made during a high-profile ceremony in Dubai on Saturday, where the board unveiled the league’s new logo and outlined a long-term vision for the competition. The inaugural season of the revamped league will feature five city-based franchises and will be hosted in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
A Fresh Start After Eight Years
This marks a significant comeback for the APL brand. The league originally debuted in 2018 at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, featuring global icons like Chris Gayle, Shahid Afridi, and Brendon McCullum. However, the competition was suspended after just one season due to logistical hurdles, payment disputes, and integrity concerns.
Determined to avoid past mistakes, the ACB has entered into a strategic 10-year partnership with Cricket Ventures—a joint venture between the Trans Group and ITW Universe—to ensure financial stability and world-class management.
Key Details for the 2026 Season Host Venue: United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Tournament Window: October 2026
Player Auction/Draft: Expected in June or July 2026
Teams: 5 city-based franchises (Identities to be finalized in the coming months)
”The APL is a significant step forward in our cricketing journey,” said ACB Chairman Mirwais Ashraf. “It will create new opportunities for our players, inspire a new generation, and allow Afghan cricket to be showcased on a global platform.”
What’s Next?
The organizers will now move into the next phase of development, which includes:
Finalizing Franchise Identities: Naming and branding the five competing cities. Commercial Partnerships: Securing global broadcasting and title sponsors. Player Recruitment: Engaging with international cricket boards to ensure a high-caliber player pool for the 2026 draft.
