Three franchises unveiled at Dubai ceremony

The Afghanistan Premier League T20 has taken a major step toward its inaugural season by unveiling its three founding franchises and the competition's trophy. The teams announced are Axcel United Kabul, Balkh Zwanan and Kandahar Warriors, revealed at a ceremony in Dubai attended by franchise owners, league partners and Afghanistan Cricket Board officials.

Each franchise arrives with distinct regional identities and ambitions. Balkh Zwanan, whose name translates to "youth," said its focus will be on identifying talent from northern Afghanistan and providing that talent with a professional platform. The Kandahar Warriors, meanwhile, emphasised an aggressive playing identity built around a passionate home following.

The Koh-E-Zafar trophy

The league also revealed its trophy, named the Koh-E-Zafar, whose design draws inspiration from Afghanistan's mountain ranges. The trophy is intended to represent strength, resilience and the pinnacle of achievement in Afghan cricket.

Pathway to the draft and first match

The APL T20 player registration portal for the inaugural draft opens on August 30, with the draft itself scheduled for September 27. The tournament is slated to begin on December 27, 2026, though the league has yet to announce the complete schedule and venues.

'Landmark occasion for Afghan cricket'

ACB chairman Mirwais Ashraf hailed the launch as a significant moment for the sport in the country.

"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 said.

With the first season set to begin in December, the APL T20 will now turn its attention to the player draft and finalising the tournament's schedule and venues, aiming to create a pathway for young players across the country.