The Afghanistan Premier League (APL) T20 has officially unveiled its three inaugural franchises and the competition’s trophy, the ‘Koh-E-Zafar’, during a ceremony in Dubai. The event, which brought together league partners, franchise owners, and Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) officials, marks a significant milestone for the league ahead of its opening season, scheduled to commence on December 27, 2026.
The three teams set to compete in the debut tournament are Axcel United Kabul, Balkh Zwanan, and Kandahar Warriors. The Koh-E-Zafar trophy, designed to symbolize the pinnacle of cricketing achievement, draws inspiration from the rugged mountain ranges of Afghanistan, representing both strength and resilience. ACB chairman Mirwais Ashraf emphasized that the launch is a vital step for the sport, noting the league’s potential to create a pathway 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 stated. Each franchise has already begun outlining its strategic goals. Balkh Zwanan, with a name signifying youth, intends to focus on scouting and nurturing talent from northern Afghanistan, while the Kandahar Warriors plan to cultivate an aggressive style of play supported by a dedicated local fanbase.
Operational preparations are now accelerating, with the player registration portal for the inaugural draft set to open on August 30. The draft itself is slated for September 27. As the December start date approaches, organizers are shifting their focus toward finalizing the tournament schedule and confirming the host venues. While the team identities and trophy are now established, the league continues to work on the remaining logistical details to ensure a successful launch.
