UAE – July 1, 2025: The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) is pleased to announce the signing of a long-term commercial partnership agreement with ITW MEA for the successful organization and management of the Afghanistan Premier League (APL T20) over the next 10 editions.
ITW MEA, a UAE- and Africa-based company renowned for its expertise in media planning, consulting, branding & activations, media production, and digital marketing, will collaborate with the ACB to deliver a world-class T20 league. ITW has an extensive track record of working with prominent organizations, including the International Cricket Council (ICC), the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), and various full-member cricket boards globally.
The agreement was officially signed by Mr. Mirwais Ashraf, Chairman of the Afghanistan Cricket Board, Mr. Naseeb Khan, CEO of Afghanistan Cricket Board and Mr. Vivek Chandra, Director and Head of Business for ITW MEA.
As part of this agreement, a joint governing council comprising representatives from both ACB and ITW will be formed, that will oversee key operational decisions, including the selection of hosting venues and other essential aspects related to the league's execution.
The ACB initiated the process of identifying a strategic partner by announcing a Request for Proposal (RFP). The purpose was to find a partner who is both financially and technically capable of contributing to the growth, development, and long-term success of the APL. This process took more than a year and involved evaluation and selection phases. Ultimately, ITW MEA was chosen as the long-term strategic partner. Throughout the process, updates were provided to the ACB Board, and their feedback and suggestions were taken into account.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, ACB Chairman Mr. Mirwais Ashraf stated: “The relaunch of the Afghanistan Premier League is a momentous achievement for Afghan cricket and its passionate fans who have long awaited this occasion. We are delighted to have partnered with a reputed organization like ITW for the successful delivery of the APL’s upcoming editions. This marks a significant step forward, and the official dates and venues will be announced soon.”
Similarly, ACB Chief Executive Officer Mr. Naseeb Khan added: “Reviving the Afghanistan Premier League has been among our top priorities. We conducted extensive discussions with several potential partners and ultimately secured an agreement with ITW, a highly credible entity. Our focus is not just on hosting a tournament but on elevating the league’s quality, competitiveness, and prestige. This platform will provide vital opportunities for our players and immense value to Afghan cricket overall.”
Mr. Vivek Chandra, Director and Head of Business for MEA at ITW, expressed his excitement about the partnership: “We are honored to join hands with the Afghanistan Cricket Board as their investor and commercial partner for the Afghanistan Premier League. Afghanistan’s meteoric rise in world cricket has been inspiring, and this partnership reflects our commitment to contributing to the growth and success of Afghan cricket. We believe this league will serve as a crucial platform for nurturing talent and raising the standards of cricket in Afghanistan.”
During August 2025, the parties, together with the ACB board members, will host a grand opening ceremony where distinguished, prominent, and respected individuals from the cricketing world, including players, business leaders, and governing bodies from around the globe, will be invited. During the ceremony, the venue and window of the upcoming edition will be announced, and the progress of the Governing Council’s activities will be shared.