Afghanistan has withdrawn from the upcoming tri-nation T20 series against Pakistan and Sri Lanka.
In a tragic incident on Friday, three young Afghan cricketers lost their lives in Pakistan’s airstrike in Paktika province. The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) confirmed that Kabeer, Sibghatullah, and Haroon, domestic-level players from Urgun district, were among the victims. In response, Afghanistan has withdrawn from the upcoming tri-nation T20 series against Pakistan and Sri Lanka.
Kabeer, also known as Kabir Agha, was an emerging batting talent from Paktika’s Urgun district. He had recently represented regional clubs in youth tournaments organized by the ACB’s southern cricket committee. Known for his aggressive top-order batting, Kabeer was considered a strong candidate for the Afghanistan U-23 provincial camp in 2026. Coaches praised his consistent performances in district leagues.
Sibghatullah was a medium-fast bowler and captaincy contender in last year’s Paktika Premier League. Playing for the Urgun Warriors, he impressed with disciplined bowling and leadership skills. He also mentored young bowlers at local cricket academies. His dedication to the sport made him a respected figure in Paktika’s domestic cricket scene.
Haroon was a versatile all-rounder who excelled in both batting and off-spin bowling. He had participated in local T20 and tape-ball leagues and recently joined a provincial development camp. Alongside cricket, he was pursuing college studies. Coaches and peers regarded him as one of the Urgun district’s most talented young players.
The Afghanistan Cricket Board expressed deep grief over the deaths. In a media release, the ACB described the airstrike as a “cowardly attack” by Pakistan, which claimed eight lives in total, including the three cricketers. Seven others were injured during the attack.
The ACB said the players had returned from a friendly match in Sharana when they were targeted during a gathering. The board called it a devastating loss for Afghanistan’s sporting community and extended condolences to the families and residents of Paktika. As a mark of respect, Afghanistan withdrew from the upcoming Tri-Nation T20I series against Pakistan.
Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan condemned the attack on civilians, calling it “immoral and barbaric.” He highlighted the loss of children, women, and young cricketers aspiring to represent the nation. Rashid expressed support for ACB’s decision to pull out of the series and emphasized that national dignity and solidarity with the Afghan people must come first.
The airstrikes occurred despite a fragile 48-hour ceasefire agreed between Afghanistan and Pakistan. Reports indicate that Pakistani strikes hit residential areas in Urgun and Barmal districts, resulting in civilian casualties. The truce had been temporarily extended to allow peace talks in Doha. Afghan officials accuse Pakistan of undermining efforts to restore calm along the volatile border.
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