Photo Credit: Afghanistan Cricket Board
The Ninth Edition of the Shpageeza Cricket League, Afghanistan’s premier domestic event, kicks off on August 12, 2024, in Kabul. Five regional teams will compete in a double round-robin format from August 12 to 25 at the Kabul Cricket Stadium.
The tournament begins with the opening fixture between the Speenghar Tigers and the Band-e-Amir Dragons on August 12. The other three teams, Amo Region, Mis-e-Ainak Region, and Bost Region, will also compete for the title.
A total of 21 matches will be played over 14 days, featuring 10 double headers, and will conclude with the Grand Finale between the top two teams on August 25.
ACB CEO Mr. Naseeb Khan expressed his excitement for the 9th edition of the SCL and stated: “The Shpageeza Cricket League has become a crucial platform for the emergence of talent, and has significantly contributed to the growth of Afghanistan cricket. We understand the importance of this event and are committed to its success through meticulous planning and execution.”
Super Cola Beverages Manufacturing Company has secured the title sponsorship rights for the event, while Etisalat Afghanistan Telecommunication Company has obtained the presenting sponsorship rights. Subsequently, the Shpageeza Cricket League 2024 is set to be named the “XBull Energy Drink Shpageeza Cricket League 2024 Presented by Etisalat,”
The League was inaugurated in 2013 when T20 cricket was on a rapid rise on the global stage. The league has seen the Speenghar Tigers crowned champions three times, while the Mis-e-Ainak Knights and Kabul Eagles have each won the title twice. The Mis-e-Ainak Knights have made it to the finals for five times which make them the most successful team in SCL history. The Band-e-Amir Dragons, led by Rashid Khan, won the title in 2017 and remain the only team with a single championship win.
As a significant part of Afghanistan’s domestic cricket structure, the Shpageeza Cricket League 2024 will play a crucial role in the growth of cricket in the country. The Shpageeza Cricket League 2024 will be followed by the 7th edition of the Ahmad Shah Abdali First Class Tournament in September this year.
