(Image Source: X – ACB)
[Saba Sports News] On January 11, 2024, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) held its Annual General Meeting in Kabul. Chaired by ACB Chairman Mirwais Ashraf, the meeting saw board members reviewing the previous year’s achievements and setting plans for 2024. Key discussions included the 2023 activities, accomplishments, and challenges, with special focus on the design of the Kabul International Cricket Stadium in the Alokhil area.
Financial matters were a major agenda item, with presentations on increased budgets, revenue sources from the ICC and ACC, sponsorships, and earnings from various cricket events. The meeting introduced a new domestic cricket player pathway with stages named Discovery, Foundation, Development, and Elite, alongside proposals for increased domestic player contracts and match fees. Changes to central contracts and incentives for top performers in domestic and international cricket were also discussed.
The High-Performance Center (HPC) was recognized for its role in capacity building and game development, aiming to bridge the domestic-international cricket gap, enhance player performance, conduct talent hunts, and implement strategic capacity-building programs in 2024.
Progress on the Kabul International Cricket Stadium’s design was reviewed, including involvement from local construction firms and consultation with the sports architectural design firm “Populous,” who will conduct a free initial survey in Kabul and assist in funding proposals and meetings with donors and investors.
The board also discussed Afghanistan’s international cricket schedule for the year, including tours to India and Sri Lanka, home games against various teams, and participation in ICC and ACC events.
The meeting covered strategies for domestic cricket development, infrastructure advancement, financial resource acquisition, game promotion, and maintaining positive stakeholder relationships.
Board members Ahmad Khalid Hatam, Allah Dad Noori, Raees Ahmadzai, Obaidullah Sadarkhil, Rahmatulhaq Fuzail, Atilla Kamgar, and Khan Jan Alokozai approved the proposed changes and commended the ACB Senior Management for its effective leadership and future planning.