Afghanistan Premier League returns after 8 years, set to start on December 27

The Afghanistan Premier League (APL) is set to make its long-awaited return on December 27, with the franchise-based T20 competition resuming after an eight-year gap. The tournament’s first edition was held in the United Arab Emirates in 2018, with five teams competing in the inaugural season.

The 2018 edition featured Kabul Zwanan, Balkh Legends, Kandahar Knights, Nangarhar Leopards and Paktia Panthers. Balkh



Legends, led by Mohammad Nabi, defeated Kabul Zwanan by four wickets in the final to become the inaugural champions, while Rashid Khan was named Player of the Tournament.

The revived league will feature a new-look franchise structure, with Axcel United Kabul, Balkh Zwanan and Kandahar Warriors confirmed as the first three franchises. The ACB has said the process of finalising the remaining franchises is ongoing.