Three franchises sold in Afghanistan Premier League T20

The Afghanistan Premier League T20 (APL T20) has revealed its first three franchises and the championship trophy as it prepares for its inaugural season, set to commence on December 27, 2026. The three teams – Axcel United Kabul, Balkh Zwanan, and Kandahar Warriors – were unveiled at a ceremony in Dubai, attended by franchise owners, league partners, and officials from the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB).

The tournament's trophy, named the 'Koh-E-Zafar', draws inspiration from Afghanistan's mountain ranges, symbolizing strength, resilience, and achievement in cricket.

Franchise registrations for the inaugural draft will open on August 30, with the draft scheduled for September 27. The league has yet to announce the full tournament schedule and venues. ACB chairman Mirwais Ashraf highlighted the importance of this launch for Afghan cricket, stating that it represents a significant milestone and paves the way for young players.

"Today is a landmark occasion for Afghan cricket. The unveiling of our inaugural franchises and the Koh-E-Zafar trophy reflects our shared vision of building a league that inspires future generations," Ashraf said.

Each of the three franchises has outlined their objectives, focusing on developing local talent and fostering strong connections with their respective regions. Balkh Zwanan, named after 'youth', aims to identify talent from northern Afghanistan and provide them with a professional platform. In contrast, Kandahar Warriors emphasize an aggressive playing style and a dedicated fan base.

With the first season commencing in December, the APL T20 will now concentrate on finalizing the player draft and determining the tournament's venues and schedule.