Afghanistan cricket has taken a significant step forward as it establishes Abu Dhabi as its second home. With the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) facing logistical and political challenges in hosting international matches, this move ensures that Afghan players get consistent international exposure and top-class facilities. The agreement with the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) marks a crucial milestone, strengthening ties between the two nations and providing a stable base for Afghanistan’s cricketing future.
Why Abu Dhabi? The Need for a Second Home
Afghanistan has struggled with venue stability, often playing “home” matches in India, UAE, and Qatar. Due to political instability and infrastructure limitations in Afghanistan, securing a permanent second home was necessary.
| Key Reasons for Choosing Abu Dhabi | Impact on Afghanistan Cricket |
|---|---|
| State-of-the-art stadiums | High-quality pitches and facilities |
| Proximity to Afghanistan | Easy access for players and officials |
| Support from Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) | Guaranteed hosting of home series |
| Security and Stability | Safe environment for international teams |
This partnership with Abu Dhabi Cricket & Sports Hub ensures that Afghanistan will play major bilateral series, T20 leagues, and ICC events preparations at one of the finest venues in world cricket.
Afghanistan’s Past Struggles with Home Grounds
Before this move, Afghanistan cricket had an uncertain home setup:
| Year | Home Ground Used | Reason for Change |
|---|---|---|
| 2010-2016 | Sharjah, UAE | Lack of home infrastructure |
| 2017-2019 | Greater Noida, India | Agreement with BCCI |
| 2019-2021 | Ekana Stadium, Lucknow, India | Better facilities |
| 2021-2023 | UAE, Qatar (various venues) | Political and travel issues |
| 2024 | Abu Dhabi (New Home) | Permanent setup with ECB |
Afghanistan now joins Pakistan and other associate nations in making UAE their official home base for international cricket.
What This Move Means for Afghanistan Cricket
1. Regular International Matches at a Fixed Venue
One of the biggest challenges for Afghanistan has been hosting regular international series. With a permanent home in Abu Dhabi, teams will be more comfortable scheduling bilateral series, enhancing Afghanistan’s competitive edge.
2. Better Training Facilities and Player Development
Abu Dhabi’s top-tier cricket infrastructure includes:
✔ ICC-approved stadiums
✔ High-performance training facilities
✔ Access to world-class coaching
With consistent training camps and home advantage in international fixtures, Afghanistan’s squad is expected to improve significantly.
3. Stronger Ties with UAE Cricket and Franchise Leagues
The UAE is a major hub for T20 leagues, and this partnership could lead to:
- More Afghan players in ILT20 (UAE’s franchise league)
- Increased collaboration between ECB and ACB
- Possible Afghanistan-based franchise teams in UAE leagues
Upcoming Fixtures in Abu Dhabi
With Abu Dhabi now serving as Afghanistan’s home, upcoming matches at this venue are expected to include:
| Series | Opposition | Format | Expected Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Afghanistan vs Ireland | ODI Series | 3 ODIs | Mid-2024 |
| Afghanistan vs Sri Lanka | Test & T20I Series | 1 Test, 3 T20Is | Late 2024 |
| Afghanistan vs Pakistan | Bilateral Series | T20Is & ODIs | 2025 |
The availability of world-class venues will also help Afghanistan prepare better for major ICC tournaments like the T20 World Cup 2026 and the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Boost for Afghan Players in T20 Leagues
A stable home base in Abu Dhabi will also benefit Afghanistan’s rising stars in the T20 circuit. With players like:
✔ Rashid Khan (MI Cape Town, Gujarat Titans, ILT20 League)
✔ Mujeeb Ur Rahman (Brisbane Heat, Sunrisers Hyderabad, ILT20)
✔ Rahmanullah Gurbaz (KKR, ILT20, Lanka Premier League)
Afghanistan players will get consistent exposure to franchise cricket while staying connected to their national team setup in Abu Dhabi.
Economic and Commercial Benefits for Afghanistan Cricket
| Key Benefit | Impact on ACB |
|---|---|
| Increased sponsorships | More revenue for Afghan cricket |
| Better broadcasting deals | Global visibility of Afghanistan cricket |
| Hosting international teams | Strengthens ties with cricketing nations |
With Abu Dhabi as the new home, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) will now have the chance to generate higher revenue, improve facilities, and expand cricketing programs across Afghanistan.
The Road Ahead for Afghanistan Cricket
Afghanistan has consistently risen through the ranks in world cricket, and this move will strengthen their international presence. The partnership with Abu Dhabi Cricket gives them stability, financial growth, and long-term development opportunities. This is a game-changing move, ensuring that Afghanistan remains a strong force in international cricket for years to come.
