Afghanistan Cricket Board likely to make comeback in India to host domestic series against Bangladesh

The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) is actively engaging with the Indian Cricket Board in hopes of bringing its cricket tournaments back to India. This move comes after a period of hosting international matches in the United Arab Emirates due to changing geopolitical circumstances in Afghanistan.

Previously, the ACB had organised its tournaments in Lucknow, Greater Noida, and Dehradun in India. However, since the Taliban gained dominance in Afghanistan in August 2021, the ACB shifted its stance and signed an agreement in November of the same year to host its home series in the UAE for the next five years.

Now, there seems to be a reconsideration of this decision. The ACB is reportedly exploring the possibility of returning to India for its upcoming Test and limited-overs cricket series. The upcoming home series against Bangladesh will be organised in July 2024, following the T-20 World Cup.

Afghanistan’s current political and geographical conditions have made it challenging for international teams to visit. It forced the ACB to host its home series in other countries for security reasons. Initially, after gaining recognition from the Apex Cricket Council, Afghanistan made India its base for many years.

Utilising Indian facilities for practice and hosting international matches, the team played some games in Lucknow, Greater Noida, and Dehradun. The Indian Cricket Board also played a crucial role in supporting Afghanistan cricket during this period.

Where will ACB organise their games in India?

According to ACB sources, discussions are underway through the Government of India, and high-level talks are in the final stages. An official announcement on this matter is expected soon. The ACB has expressed interest in hosting matches in Lucknow, citing the excellent Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Stadium and the cost-effectiveness of organising matches there.

However, considerations for the venue’s finalisation include evaluating the impact of rainfall in July, as this period coincides with the monsoon season in many parts of India. The cricketing fraternity awaits official confirmation on the return of Afghanistan’s cricketing events to Indian soil, marking a potential revival of the cricketing ties between the two nations.

It’s worth noting that Afghanistan will come to India for a three-match T20I series in January next year. The series will mark India’s final preparations before the prestigious World Cup in Ceremonies.