In a major fallout from rising border tensions, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has withdrawn from the upcoming tri-nation T20 series featuring Pakistan and Sri Lanka. The decision came after three Afghan domestic cricketers were killed in airstrikes allegedly carried out by Pakistan’s military regime in Afghanistan’s Paktika province.
The ACB condemned the attack in strong terms, calling it “a cowardly act carried out by the Pakistani regime.” The tri-series was scheduled to be held from November 5 to 29 in Lahore and Rawalpindi.
Afghanistan Cricket Board Condemns ‘Cowardly’ Attack
In an official statement shared on social media, the ACB expressed grief and anger over the loss of young players’ lives.
“In this heartbreaking incident, three players (Kabeer, Sibghatullah, and Haroon) alongside five other fellow countrymen from Urgun District were martyred, and seven others were injured,” the statement read.
Statement of Condolence
The Afghanistan Cricket Board expresses its deepest sorrow and grief over the tragic martyrdom of the brave cricketers from Urgun District in Paktika Province, who were targeted this evening in a cowardly attack carried out by the Pakistani regime.
In… pic.twitter.com/YkenImtuVR
— Afghanistan Cricket Board (@ACBofficials) October 17, 2025
The board also confirmed that the cricketers had returned home to Urgun after participating in a friendly match in Sharana, the capital of Paktika province, when the airstrikes hit their area.
“The ACB considers this a great loss for Afghanistan’s sports community, its athletes, and the cricketing family,” the statement added.
Rashid Khan Slams ‘Barbaric’ Airstrikes
Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan strongly condemned the attack, calling it “barbaric” and “immoral.” “I am deeply saddened by the loss of civilian lives in the recent Pakistani aerial strikes on Afghanistan. A tragedy that claimed the lives of women, children, and aspiring young cricketers who dreamed of representing their nation on the world stage,” Rashid said.
“It is absolutely immoral and barbaric to target civilian infrastructure. These unjust and unlawful actions represent a grave violation of human rights and must not go unnoticed,” he added.
Rashid also backed the ACB’s decision to withdraw from the tri-series, saying, “In light of the precious innocent souls lost, I welcome the ACB’s decision to withdraw from upcoming fixtures against Pakistan. I stand with our people at this difficult time; our national dignity must come before all else.”
Escalating Tensions Between Pakistan and Afghanistan
Tensions between the two neighboring nations have been rising since October 11, when border clashes broke out after Afghan forces reportedly attacked Pakistani military posts. The fighting left dozens dead on both sides, followed by a temporary 48-hour ceasefire.
However, the truce quickly broke down after Pakistan allegedly carried out airstrikes in Afghanistan’s Paktika province, targeting areas along the Durand Line. The Taliban government in Kabul condemned the attacks as a violation of the ceasefire and called for accountability.
The incident comes as delegations from both countries were in Doha for talks aimed at de-escalating the situation.
Impact on Pakistan’s Cricket Diplomacy
Afghanistan’s withdrawal is a diplomatic and sporting setback for Pakistan, which has been trying to rebuild its image as a safe venue for international cricket. The country’s cricket board, PCB, had hoped that the tri-series with Afghanistan and Sri Lanka would showcase its growing stability and ability to host major events.
This would have been Afghanistan’s second tour of Pakistan this year, following the Champions Trophy hosted under a hybrid model.
With India already refusing to play bilateral series with Pakistan since 2012–13, Afghanistan’s exit further isolates Pakistan in the region’s cricketing landscape.
Earlier incidents, including India’s refusal to accept the Asia Cup trophy from PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi, have deepened the diplomatic divide in South Asian cricket.
ACB Stands Firm on Its Decision
“The ACB also extends its deepest condolences and solidarity to the bereaved families of the martyrs and to the people of Paktika Province,” the board said.
“In response to this tragic incident and as a gesture of respect to the victims, the Afghanistan Cricket Board has decided to withdraw from participating in the upcoming Tri-Nation T20I Series involving Pakistan.”
The decision underscores how political and military tensions are now directly impacting cricket, one of the few cultural ties that once united the region.
