Indian investors are among five parties interested in acquiring the remaining two franchise spots in the upcoming Afghanistan Premier League (APL), signalling potential commercial interest in the tournament's long-awaited revival. The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has already secured three franchise owners and is working to finalise the remaining agreements ahead of the league's scheduled return on December 27, 2026.
According to ACB chief executive Naseeb Khan, the interested parties include one from Afghanistan and others from India and international markets. The board is prioritising financially capable and experienced investors who can contribute to the league's long-term growth rather than rushing to complete the ownership process.
Why Could Indian Investors Be Interested in the APL?
India's interest in the APL could be driven by several commercial opportunities. Franchise cricket has become an attractive investment segment, offering potential revenue through sponsorships, media rights, merchandise, and international brand exposure.
The APL could also provide investors with an opportunity to enter a developing T20 cricket market. Afghanistan has produced several internationally recognised cricketers, particularly in the T20 format, creating the possibility of attracting audiences across South Asia and other cricket-following regions.
Furthermore, the UAE-based tournament could offer a commercially accessible platform for international investors. Its location, established cricket infrastructure and ability to host overseas players could help the competition appeal to a wider audience.
However, these factors represent potential investment opportunities rather than confirmed reasons behind the Indian parties' interest. The identities of the prospective owners and the financial terms of any agreements have not been disclosed.
Can Indian Ownership Help the APL's Revival?
The APL previously held its inaugural edition in 2018, with Balkh Legends winning the tournament. Subsequent efforts to revive the competition failed, including the cancellation of the earlier commercial agreement with Snixer Sports over unpaid rights fees.
Securing reliable investors will therefore be crucial to establishing financial stability and avoiding similar setbacks. Indian ownership could potentially strengthen commercial partnerships and expand the league's reach, depending on the investors involved.
The ACB remains confident about the December 27 launch, with the player draft scheduled for the final week of October and approximately 1,500 players reportedly registered.
While Indian investor participation could become a significant development for the APL, the league's success will ultimately depend on completing franchise agreements, securing player participation and building a sustainable commercial structure.
