Taliban have permitted the Afghanistan National men’s cricket team to play International matches. This will be the first match that Afghanistan will play since the Taliban’s takeover of the country. During their first stint in power, before they were ousted in 2001, the Taliban banned most forms of entertainment including many sports, and stadiums were used as public execution venues.
The Test match will be played in Hobart, Australia from November 27-December 1. It was previously scheduled for last year but was put off due to the Covid-19 pandemic and international travel restrictions. This will be Afghanistan’s first Test in Australia.
The Afghan national men’s team was formed after the Taliban were overthrown in 2001. Before the Australia tour, the Afghanistan team will feature in the Twenty20 World Cup, to be held in the United Arab Emirates from October 17-November 15.
This decision has been made as many of the Taliban members are fond of the game of cricket and follow it religiously.
“The Taliban love cricket. They have supported us since the beginning. They did not interfere in our activities. I don’t see any interference and expect support so that our cricket can move forward. We have got an active chairman, and I remain CEO until further notice.” said the Afghanistan cricket board CEO Shinwari.
