APL T20 unveils Koh-i-Zafar trophy as 3 franchises sold — Pajhwok

KABUL (Pajhwok): The Afghanistan Premier League T20 (APL T20) governing committee has unveiled the league’s trophy, named Koh-i-Zafar, and completed the sale of three franchise teams, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) said. The agreements were signed with the respective owners during a ceremony attended by APL T20 governing committee members, franchise owners and other stakeholders. The three franchises are Akcel United Kabul, Shekib Rahimi Balkh Zwanan and Bullfrog Kandahar Warriors. The selection process for the remaining two franchises is ongoing. ACB Chairman Mirwais Ashraf described the development as a “proud and historic moment,” saying the league was gradually taking shape and that its second edition would feature Afghan and international players. ACB CEO Naseeb Khan said the revival of the APL T20 would provide technical and economic opportunities for Afghan cricket and help strengthen the country’s cricket ecosystem. The APL T20 player registration and draft portal will open on August 30, while the player draft is scheduled for September 27, 2026. The ACB said details of the tournament schedule and venues would be announced after the remaining franchise selection process is completed. The inaugural APL T20 was held in the United Arab Emirates in 2018, with Balkh Legends becoming the first champions.