Afghanistan Premier League Reveals First Three Teams Ahead of Inaugural Season
The Afghanistan Premier League has confirmed three franchises for their maiden T20 season, which begins on December 27, 2026. The three teams are: Axcel United Kabul, Balkh Zwanan, and Kandahar Warriors.
On August 26, 2026, franchise owners, league partners, and Afghanistan Cricket Board officials gathered in Dubai for a ceremony to honour the occasion. The occasion also featured the official unveiling of the league trophy, known as the Koh-E-Zafar.
The craggy mountain scenery of Afghanistan serves as inspiration for the Koh-E-Zafar trophy design. According to the league, the design is intended to represent strength, resilience, and the pinnacle of athletic performance.
During the Dubai ceremony, ACB Chairman Mirwais Ashraf discussed the significance of the event for Afghan cricket. Today is a watershed moment for Afghan cricket. The unveiling of our initial clubs, as well as the Koh-E-Zafar trophy, shows our common aim of creating a league that will inspire future generations,” Ashraf told Cricbuzz.
What identity does each of the three franchises possess?
Each franchise is based on a particular geographical character. Balkh Zwanan is named after a term that means “youth,” and the franchise has made it plain that it intends to find and develop talent from northern Afghanistan. The franchise’s declared philosophy emphasises the importance of developing young players.
The Kandahar Warriors have established a fierce on-field identity and anticipate a large and loud fan base in their native region. Axcel United Kabul represent the capital and provide a third distinct voice in the league’s starting lineup.
According to media reports, five franchises are planned for the first APL season, covering the Kabul, Kandahar, Balkh, Paktia, and Nangarhar regions. The remaining two franchises, which were not revealed on August 26, 2026, have yet to be verified by the ACB.
When is the player registration and draft procedure open?
Following the franchise announcements, the league announced a clear squad assembly timeline. The player registration portal will open on August 30, 2026, four days after the Dubai ceremony, allowing players and their representatives to formally register ahead of the draft.
The player draft is planned for September 27, 2026. Once the draft is completed, the three confirmed franchises will have their rosters in place for the December 27, 2026 season kickoff. The APL will be held in the UAE.
