Abu Dhabi becomes Afghanistan’s new home after India exit

Abu Dhabi has become the new home for the Afghanistan National Cricket Team after the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) signed a historic five-year deal with Abu Dhabi Cricket and Sports Hub (ADCSH). On March 26, the ACB has officially confirmed it will sign a deal with the ADCSH.

The historic partnership makes Abu Dhabi a new home venue for the Afghan Team until 2030. The ACB took the call because they continue to face challenges in hosting international cricket matches on home soil due to the political situation in the Taliban-governed Afghanistan.

ACB signs historic agreement with Abu Dhabi

Over the years, the ACB has used alternative venues like Dehradun, Lucknow, and Greater Noida in India, along with various locations in the UAE, to host international matches for the national cricket team. Now, with this agreement, Abu Dhabi will serve as the primary hub for all ACB training camps, as well as matches involving Afghanistan A and other national age-group teams.

Additionally, the ACB will work closely with the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) to ensure the Afghan teams can host bilateral series in the different venues in the UAE. This collaboration will provide them with a stable base to continue competing on the international stage.

The ACB expressed excitement about the partnership with Abu Dhabi Cricket and Sports Hub, calling it a significant step for Afghanistan cricket. He highlighted that Abu Dhabi’s top-class facilities will play a crucial role in developing young talent and strengthening their team.

Very excited to be entering a fruitful partnership with the ADCSH: ACB CEO

ACB chief executive officer Naseeb Khan stated, “Very excited to be entering a fruitful partnership with the ADCSH, which will allow us to utilize all the premium facilities available in this destination for the development of our age-group cricket. Abu Dhabi confirmed as our second home marks another turning point for Afghan cricket.”

He also acknowledged the UAE’s continued support in providing the Afghan Team with a stable platform to compete internationally. The ACB CEO further explained, “The UAE has been instrumental in providing us with a platform to compete at the highest level,’ and I would like to thank the Emirates Cricket Board and all the venues for their continued support.”

Naseeb further noted, “The opportunity to now focus on Abu Dhabi as our training base and our home for age-group participation will allow us to elevate Afghans’ sporting success and build a strong national future for the game of cricket in our country.”

We can confirm Abu Dhabi as Afghanistan’s second home: ADCSH CEO

Meanwhile, ADCSH chief executive Matt Boucher expressed pride in providing a world-class home for the Afghan Team and noted that Abu Dhabi has enjoyed hosting Afghanistan in recent years and is excited to officially become their second home.

Boucher signed off by saying, “Abu Dhabi Cricket & Sports Hub is honored to provide a world-class home for Afghanistan cricket. Our facilities have already welcomed the world’s best players, and this agreement strengthens our strong commitment to nurturing global sporting and cricket talent and leveraging its capacity to be a force for societal good.”

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