Lahore: The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has officially announced its withdrawal from the upcoming tri-nation cricket series scheduled to be held in Pakistan this November. Following the announcement, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has issued its response, expressing disappointment over the decision but reaffirming its commitment to regional cricket cooperation.
In a statement released by the ACB, officials confirmed that Afghanistan would not participate in the Tri-Nation Series, which was to feature Pakistan, Afghanistan, and a third invited team, reportedly Sri Lanka. The ACB did not specify the exact reasons for pulling out but cited “scheduling complications and internal strategic adjustments” as contributing factors.
According to the statement, “After careful consideration of the team’s current international commitments and preparation plans, Afghanistan has decided not to take part in the tri-series scheduled in Pakistan in November. We remain committed to strengthening our cricketing ties with all regional boards, including the PCB, and look forward to future bilateral engagements.”
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), in its response, confirmed Afghanistan’s withdrawal and stated that it respected the ACB’s decision, while emphasizing that Pakistan’s doors “will always remain open” for sporting cooperation.
A PCB spokesperson said, “We were looking forward to hosting the Afghan team as part of our continued efforts to promote regional cricket. While it’s unfortunate that they have withdrawn, we understand their situation and hope to collaborate with them on future series.”
The spokesperson added that discussions are now underway with other cricket boards to restructure the series or potentially organize an alternative bilateral series during the same window.
Sources within the PCB suggested that the board had invested significant planning and logistical arrangements for the event, which was expected to take place in Rawalpindi and Lahore. The series was intended as a key preparation opportunity ahead of the international cricket calendar’s packed 2026 season.
