Taliban regime in Afghanistan has made their first big decision regarding cricket. Afghanistan will play their home matches in the United Arab Emirates from 2023 onwards. Previously India used to host their home matches (first the Greater Noida Sports Complex Ground, and then Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow). Emirates Cricket Board and the Afghanistan Cricket Board signed the deal earlier this month. And this is a big blow to the BCCI, who invested heavily on Afghanistan while ignoring other neighboring nations such as Nepal and Bhutan.
Taliban fighters are true fans of cricket. During the war, the Taliban fighters of Afghanistan are organizing cricket besides an interval. Many have organized cricket matches with Kalashnikovs and guns. Mullah Badruddin, a Taliban commander, said "I love cricket," When Afghanistan plays another team, we listen to the radio commentary with great interest and watch the scores and live on social media.”
Cricket was first played in Afghanistan during the 19th century. Many believe that such love for cricket can be used to bridge the linguistic and cultural divide between Afghans.
Many people have also praised the agreement between the Taliban government and the United Arab Emirates. The transition of their cricket to UAE is a good direction for their cricket.