ACB in Discussions with BCCI for Afghanistan Cricket Home Games 2024. The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) is in discussions with the Board of Control for Cricket (BCCI) in India to host their home games in India in 2024. Presently, the cricket team holds their home games in Dubai.
Amidst the ongoing security challenges in Afghanistan, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has been conducting its home games in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) through a five-year agreement with the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB). This arrangement prioritizes the safety and stability of players and fans.
As the agreement concludes, the ACB is reportedly exploring the possibility of hosting their home games in India, according to Jagran News.
In an escalation of the club versus country debate, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has chosen to postpone the issuance of the 2024 annual central contracts for national players, including Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fazal Haq Farooqi, and Naveen Ul Haq. This decision comes as a response to these players prioritizing participation in franchise leagues over national commitments.
The three players’ decision not to sign the central contract was rooted in their engagement with commercial leagues, seemingly prioritizing personal interests over national duties. In response, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has opted not to issue No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for the next two years, making it essential for players to secure approval from the national federation, including for participation in foreign leagues such as the Indian Premier League.
In response to the players’ formal communication expressing their intention to forego the annual central contract from January 1, 2024, and seeking consent for participation in national events, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has imposed sanctions. Following a committee’s recommendation, the ACB decided not to award Central Contracts to these players for one year, starting January 1, 2024. The committee further proposed that the ACB would assess and determine their participation in events as needed during this period.
Also Read: Hardik Pandya Ruled Out Of T20I Series Against Afghanistan, Will Be Fit Before IPL 2024: Report
ACB Takes Firm Stance on Player NOCs and National Priorities
The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has received instructions to postpone the issuance of No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for the three players intending to participate in foreign leagues. The directive includes considering these players as ineligible to obtain NOCs for a two-year period, with immediate revocation of all current NOCs.
Additionally, there is an urging for the ACB to transparently communicate its stance to the cricketing community, including the ICC, the ACC, Member Countries/Cricket Boards, and the Afghanistan Public.
This decision by the Afghanistan Cricket Board underscores a commitment to national priorities, aligning with the ACB’s core values and principles.
The decision also underscores the importance for every player to uphold the principles of the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) and prioritize the nation’s interests over their personal considerations.
