Afghanistan signs five-year deal to host games in the UAE

The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) and the Emirates Cricket Board have agreed a five-year deal that will see the ACB hosts its home fixtures in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). 

The ACB will also play a series of three T20 International (T20I) matches each year with the UAE national team, as part of the agreement. The Emirates Cricket Board will support the ACB with logistical needs, such as visa assistance and office space. 

“Both parties, the Emirates Cricket Board and the Afghanistan Cricket Board enjoy long and cordial relations and we are happy to support the ACB in ensuring that they have a home for their cricket,” said Musbashir Usmani, general secretary of the Emirates Cricket Board. 

“We are also thankful to the Afghanistan Cricket Board for agreeing to play a series of T20I matches against the UAE team each year. This will provide our UAE team with invaluable exposure and help in their development.”

Last year, the UAE accommodated the conclusion of the 2021 Indian Premier League (IPL) season, after a number of players tested positive for COVID-19 earlier in the campaign. 

The UAE and Oman also provided the backdrop for last year’s ICC Twenty20 World Cup, which was also moved from India due to ongoing issues surrounding the pandemic.