Afghanistan has pulled out of a upcoming cricket tri‑series with Pakistan and Sri Lanka after a tragic air strike in Paktika province killed three of its local cricketers. The Afghan Cricket Board (ACB) made the decision on Friday, saying it was a “gesture of respect” for the victims.
The series was scheduled to run from November 5‑29 in Lahore and Rawalpindi, featuring Sri Lanka and Pakistan. Afghanistan’s withdrawal comes after a Pakistani strike on a gathering in the Urgun district of Paktika province that claimed the lives of cricketers Kabeer, Sibghatullah and Haroon, and injured several others.
“We mourn the loss of brave young cricketers from Urgun district, who were targeted in a cowardly attack by the Pakistani regime,” the ACB said. It added that the incident was a great loss for Afghan sports and called for solidarity with the families and people of Paktika province.
Afghan captain and former skipper Mohammad Nabi called the attack “immoral and barbaric,” and urged the cricket board’s decision to withdraw from upcoming fixtures against Pakistan. Former player Mohammad Nabi said the tragedy affects “the entire Afghan cricket family and the nation.” International cricketer Fazalhaq Farooqi also condemned the “heinous, unforgivable crime” that killed innocent civilians and domestic players.
The tri‑nation T20I series now proceeds without Afghanistan, who stand with the victims and their families during this difficult time. The ACB’s withdrawal underscores the seriousness of the incident and the need for an end to violence in the region.
Source: ianslive
Stay informed on all the latest news, real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in world News on Latest NewsX. Follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter(X), Gettr and subscribe our Youtube Channel.
