![Afghanistan Cricket [Source: AFP]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1768452749384_Afghanistan Cricket (1).jpg)
Afghanistan Cricket [Source: AFP]
In a significant development, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has taken an important step to protect the health and well-being of its cricketers. On January 14, during its Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Kabul, the ACB announced that Afghan players will now be allowed to take part in only a limited number of franchise-based T20 leagues each year.
Notably, this decision aims to reduce physical strain and mental pressure on players who are constantly travelling and playing cricket around the world.
ACB introduces new rules to manage player workload
According to the ACB, the main reason for this move is to safeguard player fitness and mental health. In recent years, many Afghan cricketers have become highly sought-after in international T20 leagues.
As a result, they often play nonstop cricket throughout the year. Therefore, the Board believes that limiting participation will help players stay fresh, avoid injuries, and perform better for the national team.
"To protect player fitness and mental well-being, the Board approved a new policy regarding foreign leagues," ACB said in a statement following the AGM.
Under the new rule, players will be allowed to play in the Afghanistan Premier League along with only three international T20 leagues per year. This policy is expected to help manage workload and ensure players are fully prepared when representing Afghanistan.
"Players will now be permitted to participate in the APL, plus only three other international leagues per year.”
ACB new rule might impact star players
However, this decision could have f;inancial consequences for some of Afghanistan’s top players. Cricketers such as Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, AM Ghazanfar, and Rahmanullah Gurbaz are in high demand across global T20 leagues. Since franchise cricket offers significant earnings, limiting participation may reduce their income.
For example, Rashid Khan, the highest wicket-taker in T20 cricket, currently plays for several franchises worldwide. He is captaining MI Cape Town in South Africa’s SA20 and also represents MI Emirates, MI New York, and Gujarat Titans in the IPL. With the new policy, Rashid now needs to choose only three leagues each year.
ACB introduces new clause for foreign coaches
In addition to the league restriction, the ACB also announced changes related to foreign coaching staff. A new clause will require foreign coaches to visit Afghanistan when needed.
Moreover, the ACB leadership was praised for reviving the Afghanistan Premier League and starting major infrastructure projects. These efforts show the Board’s commitment to improving cricket facilities and opportunities within the country.
The AGM was chaired by ACB Chairman Mirwais Ashraf and attended by key officials, including CEO Naseeb Khan and several board members. Some members joined the meeting virtually, showing strong participation and unity in decision-making.
It is also worth noting that Afghanistan are not alone in enforcing such limits. Other cricket boards have similar rules. For instance, the PCB allows its players to play in only two foreign leagues outside the PSL.
Looking ahead, Afghanistan will face West Indies in a three-match T20I series in the UAE. After that, the team will travel to India for the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. Placed in Group D alongside New Zealand, South Africa, Canada, and UAE, Afghanistan will begin their campaign against New Zealand on February 8 in Chennai.
