The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) and the Abu Dhabi Cricket and Sports Hub (ADCSH) have signed a five-year “destination support agreement,” officially designating Abu Dhabi as the training and match hub for Afghanistan cricket until 2029.
The agreement, finalized after discussions between the ACB, ADCSH, and the Abu Dhabi Sports Council (ADSC), ensures that Abu Dhabi will serve as the UAE host for all ACB training camps and matches for Afghanistan A and national age-group teams.
Additionally, the partnership opens the door for potential collaboration with the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) to facilitate Afghanistan’s senior men’s bilateral matches in the UAE.
“The opportunity to now focus on Abu Dhabi as our training base and our home for age-group participation will allow us to elevate Afghanistan’s sporting success and build a strong national future for the game of cricket in our country,” Khan said.
Matt Boucher, CEO of ADCSH, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership. “Our facilities have already welcomed the world’s best players, and this agreement strengthens our commitment to nurturing global sporting and cricket talent while leveraging its capacity to be a force for societal good. We’ve loved hosting Afghanistan over the last couple of years and are pleased to confirm Abu Dhabi as their second home,” Boucher said.
Due to Afghanistan’s political situation, the country has struggled to develop as a touring destination for international teams. As a result, Afghanistan’s senior men’s team has relied on “home venues” in India, including Dehradun, Lucknow, and Greater Noida, as well as in the UAE.
Abu Dhabi has already hosted several of Afghanistan’s matches, including three Test matches—two against Zimbabwe in March 2021 and one against Ireland in February 2024. The team has also played ODI and T20I matches across India and the UAE.
