The inaugural season of the Afghanistan Premier League (APL) T20 is officially taking shape, with the league unveiling its first three franchises and the competition’s championship trophy. The teams, identified as Axcel United Kabul, Balkh Zwanan, and Kandahar Warriors, were introduced during a ceremony in Dubai attended by league partners, franchise owners, and officials from the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB).
Alongside the team identities, the league revealed the ‘Koh-E-Zafar’ trophy. Inspired by the mountain ranges of Afghanistan, the trophy is designed to symbolize resilience, strength, and the ultimate pinnacle of cricketing success. The tournament is currently scheduled to commence on December 27, 2026, marking a significant milestone for the sport in the region.
ACB chairman Mirwais Ashraf emphasized the importance of this launch, noting that it creates a vital 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, with a heavy emphasis on regional development and local talent.
Balkh Zwanan, taking its name from the word for youth, plans to focus on scouting and elevating talent from northern Afghanistan by offering them a professional stage. Meanwhile, the Kandahar Warriors have signaled their intent to cultivate an aggressive style of play while fostering a deep connection with their local fan base. As the league prepares for the December start date, focus is shifting toward the upcoming player draft. The registration portal for the draft is set to open on August 30, with the selection process scheduled for September 27. Organizers are currently working to finalize the remaining tournament venues and the complete match schedule.
