Kabul – May 12, 2026: The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) is pleased to announce the official launch of the franchise acquisition process for the much-anticipated return of the Afghanistan Premier League (APL T20), marking a significant milestone in the continued rise of Afghan cricket on the global stage.
The
ACB will officially issue the Request for Proposal (RFP) for franchise
ownership on May 15, 2026, inviting global investors, sports entrepreneurs, and
commercial partners to become part of one of the most exciting emerging
properties in world cricket. The deadline for proposal submissions has been set
for June 30, 2026.
The
second edition of the APL T20 is scheduled to be held in the United Arab
Emirates during the final quarter of 2026, providing a world-class environment
and international-standard infrastructure for a tournament expected to deliver
elite competition, international talent, and premium production quality.
The
league will feature five franchise teams, with prospective franchise partners
having the opportunity to bid for representation from five iconic Afghan
cricketing regions and centers, which are Kabul, Kandahar, Balkh, Paktia, and
Nangarhar.
The
return of the APL comes at a time when Afghan cricketers are widely regarded
among the most impactful performers across major T20 leagues worldwide. The
tournament will serve as Afghanistan’s premier domestic T20 platform,
showcasing the country’s leading cricketing stars while also bringing together
internationally renowned players and professionals in a globally marketable
competition.
The
ACB, in collaboration with its strategic partners, has developed a commercial
framework centered on long-term sustainability, operational efficiency, and
strong commercial potential for franchise investors. The model is designed to
establish a lean, competitive, and high-value sporting property aligned with
the evolving global T20 landscape.
ACB Chairman Mirwais Ashraf said: “It is extremely encouraging to witness the steady progress toward the return of the Afghanistan Premier League, a landmark initiative for the Afghanistan Cricket Board and a significant step in the continued growth of Afghan cricket globally. In this regard, the Afghanistan Cricket Board will officially commence the franchise acquisition process for the league’s five franchises on the 15th of this month. We are confident that the APL will open a new chapter of professionalism, commercial growth, and international recognition for Afghan cricket.”
He
further added: “Afghanistan today possesses some of the finest and most
exciting talents in world cricket, and the Afghanistan Premier League will
serve as a major platform to further strengthen the global presence of Afghan
cricket. Our National Team has achieved historic successes against some of the
world’s leading cricket nations, while our Emerging, Under-19, and Afghanistan
A teams have also delivered outstanding performances internationally.”
The
APL will provide Afghan players with a professional platform to showcase their
talent, gain international exposure, and engage with leading overseas players
and experts. At the same time, the league will play an important role in
promoting Afghanistan’s culture and positive image globally, while contributing
to the long-term commercial growth of Afghan cricket.
The Afghanistan Cricket Board invites interested parties to become part of a partnership opportunity that extends beyond cricket, contributing to the growth of one of the world’s fastest-rising cricketing nations and a league with significant global potential.
-ENDS-
For
Media & Franchise Enquiries:
bid@apl-t20.com