Afghanistan Withdraws from Tri-Nation Series After Attack on Players

Afghanistan has withdrawn from an upcoming tri-nation cricket series involving Pakistan and Sri Lanka following the tragic deaths of three local cricketers. The decision, announced by the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) on September 29, 2023, comes after the players were killed in an attack in the eastern Paktika province.

The ACB reported that the players were traveling from Urgun to Sharana to participate in a friendly match when they were targeted upon returning home. The board described the attack as “a cowardly act carried out by the Pakistani regime,” although it did not provide further details regarding the incident.

Details of the Attack

The ACB confirmed that the deceased players were identified as Kabeer, Sibghatullah, and Haroon. In addition to the cricketers, five other individuals lost their lives in the attack. The board expressed its profound sorrow over the incident, stating, “We consider this a great loss for Afghanistan’s sports community, its athletes, and the cricketing family.” It extended its “deepest condolences and solidarity to the bereaved families.”

In light of the tragedy, the ACB decided to withdraw from the tri-series scheduled for October 2023 as a gesture of respect for the victims. The decision reflects the board’s commitment to honoring the memory of the slain players and acknowledging the impact of such violence on the sporting community.

Reactions from the Cricket Community

Prominent Afghan cricketers have voiced their outrage and sorrow over the incident. Fazalhaq Farooqi, an international player, took to Facebook to condemn the attack, calling it “a heinous, unforgivable crime against innocent civilians and our domestic cricket players.” Fellow cricketer Mohammad Nabi echoed this sentiment, stating, “This incident is not only a tragedy for Paktika but for the entire Afghan cricket family and the nation as a whole.”

The attack highlights ongoing concerns regarding safety and security in Afghanistan, particularly for athletes and sports organizations. The cricketing community remains united in its grief, emphasizing the need for peace and stability in the region.

The ACB’s withdrawal from the tri-nation series underscores the profound impact of violence on the sport and its players, marking a somber moment for Afghan cricket as it grapples with loss and uncertainty.