ACB hopeful of hosting international cricket after Rashid's SCL participation
The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has expressed optimism about the possibility of hosting international cricket matches in the near future. This comes as star player Rashid Khan makes his presence felt in ongoing 2024 the Shpageeza Cricket League (SCL), a move that ACB believes signifies improved security and peace in Afghanistan. Currently, due to concerns over political instability and conflict, international teams are hesitant to travel to Afghanistan for matches.
Rashid Khan's return and performance in SCL
Rashid, who had been away from Afghanistan for three years, returned earlier this year before the ICC T20 World Cup in June. He is now back to his homeland, representing Speen Ghar Tigers in the SCL T20 tournament. Recently, the star leg-spinner scored the fastest 50 in this tournament. He smashed a 23-ball 53, a knockthat had 3 fours and 6 sixes.
SCL showcases top cricket talent
The 2024 Shpageeza Cricket League is featuring nearly 90 players, including 35 nationals, top domestic performers, and international stars. Notable participants besides Rashid include Azmatullah Omarzai, Fazalhaq Farooqi, and Naveen-ul-Haq. Naseeb Khan, the ACB chief executive told Cricbuzz that the ACB also organized a "List A event in Kunduz province, far from Kabul, with the participation of about 20 national players."
ACB's invitation to international cricket teams
"Rashid Khan's participation in domestic cricket reflects several positive changes in Afghanistan," Naseeb told Cricbuzz. He hopes that the ACB can invite Full Members for international cricket after the board hosted a couple of tournaments "in a peaceful environment." "Successfully hosting the list A and Shpageeza events in a peaceful environment also serves as an invitation for other countries' cricket teams to visit and play in Afghanistan," he added.
ACB to host New Zealand in India
The Afghanistan cricket team is scheduled to host New Zealand in a one-off Test. However, their home game will be played in India at the Greater Noida Stadium. Notably, Afghanistan also played their home games in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) too.
