Kabul: The cricketing world is facing a potential disruption as Afghanistan reportedly considers withdrawing from the upcoming T20 Tri-Series scheduled in Pakistan, set to feature Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka from November 17 to 29, 2025. The decision comes in the wake of escalating military tensions and clashes along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border, raising concerns over the safety and feasibility of Afghanistan’s participation in the series.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has expressed concern over the possible withdrawal and has already reached out to the International Cricket Council (ICC) to explore contingency plans. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi indicated that the board is examining alternative arrangements to ensure the tournament goes ahead smoothly. One such option under discussion involves organizing a three-match T20 series between Pakistan and Sri Lanka in Colombo from January 1 to 10, 2026, should Afghanistan officially pull out.
The deteriorating security situation along the border has been the key trigger for Afghanistan’s reported hesitation. On October 11, Afghan forces carried out attacks on Pakistani military posts, reportedly in response to Pakistani airstrikes targeting Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) leaders in Kabul. Both sides have suffered heavy casualties, with Pakistan reporting 23 soldiers killed, while Afghanistan claims 58 Pakistani soldiers lost their lives during the clashes. The fighting has forced the closure of major border crossings, including Torkham and Chaman, disrupting trade, travel, and daily life in the affected areas.
Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, addressed the situation, highlighting the country’s commitment to peaceful relations with neighboring states. He noted that while Afghanistan maintains cooperative ties with five of its neighbors, Pakistan remains the only “unhappy” neighbor, reflecting long-standing diplomatic and security tensions between the two nations.
The potential withdrawal of Afghanistan from the Tri-Series is a stark reminder of how geopolitical conflicts can spill over into international sports. The cricketing community remains on alert as organizers, teams, and fans await further clarity regarding the series. Any official decision by Afghanistan will have significant implications not only for the tournament schedule but also for the broader cricketing engagements in the region.
The ICC and PCB are expected to issue formal statements in the coming days, detailing contingency measures and updates on the participation status of Afghanistan in the Tri-Series. Meanwhile, the situation at the Afghanistan-Pakistan border remains volatile, with the prospect of renewed clashes keeping both governments and international observers cautious.