Afghanistan’s premier domestic T20 cricket league, the Shpageeza Cricket League, commenced on Monday with a match between the defending champions Speenghar Tigers and Band-e-Amir Dragons at the Kabul Cricket Stadium. The tournament marks the return of several star national players for the first time since the Taliban took control of the country. A large and enthusiastic crowd witnessed the opening game.
While Rashid Khan, Afghanistan’s T20 captain and renowned spinner, was not initially available due to commitments with international leagues in the UK and Canada, he is set to join the tournament later. Several other prominent players are also expected to join later in the league.
The ACB (Afghanistan Cricket Board) has deployed enhanced security measures for the league after a bomb attack during last year’s tournament resulted in casualties. ACB chairman Mirwais Ashraf highlighted the importance of the league, stating that it provides a valuable platform for young players to learn from and play alongside national heroes. The league’s format has been shifted to a zonal system this year, featuring five teams competing from August 12th to 25th.
Cricket holds immense significance in Afghanistan, with the national team’s achievements on the international stage bringing much-needed joy and unity to a nation grappling with decades of war and hardship. The Shpageeza Cricket League serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for the people of Afghanistan.
