Cricket’s journey in Afghanistan is a remarkable tale of passion, perseverance, and unity, emerging from the shadows of conflict to shine on the global stage. Despite its proximity to cricket powerhouses, Afghanistan lacked a significant tradition in the sport until recent decades. Today, cricket not only unites a fractured nation but also symbolises hope and resilience for millions.
Early Beginnings
Cricket first appeared in Afghanistan during the 19th century, brought by British soldiers during the Anglo-Afghan Wars. Matches were reportedly played in Kabul as early as 1839. However, the sport failed to establish roots, disappearing from Afghan life for over a century. Unlike neighbouring South Asian nations, Afghanistan’s colonial past did not leave behind a cricketing legacy.
The revival of Afghan cricket began during the turbulent years following the Soviet invasion in 1979, which forced millions of Afghans to flee to refugee camps in Pakistan. Among these camps, cricket found fertile ground to flourish. In 1992, Pakistan’s World Cup victory intensified the country’s cricket obsession, and the sport quickly spread to the refugee communities, captivating young Afghan boys who had grown up amidst adversity.
Taj Maluk and the Dream of a National Team
The turning point came in the 1990s when Taj Maluk, a passionate cricket enthusiast and now regarded as the father of Afghan cricket, began organising games in the camps. He envisioned forming a national team that could represent Afghanistan on the global stage. Maluk travelled between camps, scouting for talent among Afghan youth and refugees playing in Pakistani teams. His dedication laid the foundation for the Afghan Cricket Federation, established in 1995 under the Afghan Olympic Committee, despite the strict rule of the Taliban.
The Taliban, while banning most public sports under their interpretation of Islamic law, allowed cricket due to its modest attire and non-contact nature. Ironically, many Taliban members who had spent time in Pakistani refugee camps had themselves developed a love for the game. Cricket thus became one of the few exceptions under their regime.
Struggles and the Path to Recognition
Despite its acceptance, cricket in Afghanistan faced numerous obstacles. After the Taliban's fall in 2001, Maluk and his team appealed to the new government for support, only to be dismissed as pursuing a “foreign game.” Yet, with private funding and sheer determination, the Afghan cricket community persevered.
In 2001, Afghanistan joined the International Cricket Council (ICC) as an affiliate member, gaining opportunities to participate in international tournaments. The team’s first significant milestone came in 2009, when they defeated Namibia to earn One Day International (ODI) status. This victory marked their entry into the elite tier of cricket. By 2010, Afghanistan qualified for the ICC T20 World Cup, showcasing their grit against top teams like South Africa and India. While they faced defeats, their fearless style of play captured global admiration.
Rapid Rise: From Affiliate to Test Nation
Over the next decade, Afghan cricket experienced meteoric growth. The team’s consistent performances saw them progress through the ICC World Cricket League and achieve historic victories, such as their first ODI win against Scotland. In 2017, Afghanistan was granted full ICC membership, becoming a Test-playing nation—an extraordinary achievement for a country with such a recent cricketing history.
The team’s debut in the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup in Australia and New Zealand further elevated their profile. Despite failing to advance beyond the group stage, they secured a memorable victory against Scotland. By 2023, Afghanistan had stunned the cricketing world with victories against former world champions like Pakistan, England, and Sri Lanka in the ODI World Cup, cementing their status as a competitive force in international cricket.
Domestic Growth and Popularity
Cricket’s popularity has permeated every corner of Afghanistan. Today, the country boasts over 500 cricket clubs and thriving domestic competitions, such as the Shpageeza Cricket League and the Ahmad Shah Abdali 4-Day Tournament. These platforms nurture local talent, ensuring a steady pipeline of skilled players.
The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has also made strategic moves, appointing high-profile coaches like Pakistan’s Inzamam-ul-Haq and India’s Manoj Prabhakar to elevate the team’s professionalism. Despite these advancements, the team has retained its unique, unorthodox style of play, which continues to win fans worldwide.
Cricket as a Unifying Force
Cricket has become a unifying symbol in a nation often divided by ethnic and political conflicts. Matches featuring the national team bring together Pashtuns, Tajiks, Hazaras, and Uzbeks in a collective celebration. The sport’s success has offered a positive image of Afghanistan, showcasing it as a land of talent and love rather than war and despair.
Rashid Khan, Afghanistan’s global cricketing icon, embodies this transformation. Alongside stars like Mohammad Nabi, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, and Rahmanullah Gurbaz, he inspires the next generation to dream beyond the limitations imposed by conflict.
The Challenges Ahead
While Afghanistan’s cricketing journey is inspiring, challenges remain. The ICC’s decision to restrict World Cup participation to ten teams poses a threat to smaller nations like Afghanistan. Additionally, limited opportunities to compete against top-tier teams hinder their growth.
Despite these obstacles, Afghan cricket continues to thrive. The team’s spirit, resilience, and fearless approach have made them a beloved underdog on the global stage. Cricket in Afghanistan is more than a game—it is a lifeline, a source of joy, and a testament to the country’s enduring hope for a brighter future.