In a Surprising Move, Afghanistan Relocates Home Stadium to Another Country

Afghanistan Cricket Relocates to Abu Dhabi in Landmark Decision

For the next five years, Abu Dhabi, UAE, will serve as Afghanistan’s home venue for all international series. This landmark decision follows extensive discussions with the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB), confirming that all visiting teams will play their bilateral matches in the UAE.

Apart from hosting international matches, the UAE will be Afghanistan’s base for training camps, A-team contests, and age-group tournaments. Additionally, the ACB and ECB will work together to facilitate bilateral series for Afghanistan’s senior team.

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Afghanistan played its home matches in Greater Noida, eventually shifting to Dehradun and Lucknow. However, the Noida Test against New Zealand highlighted serious infrastructural flaws, as poor ground conditions following heavy rains left the outfield unfit for play, forcing the match’s cancellation. Following criticism, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has now opted for a long-term relocation—a move that signals a loss of influence for the BCCI in Afghanistan’s cricket affairs.

ACB expresses gratitude to Abu Dhabi, thanking UAE for support

“We are excited to establish a valuable collaboration with ADCSH, allowing us to make full use of the world-class infrastructure available in Abu Dhabi to focus on our young cricketers. Confirming Abu Dhabi as our new home represents a crucial step forward in Afghanistan’s cricketing development,” said ACB chief Naseeb Khan.

“The UAE has been a cornerstone in our journey to compete at the highest level, and I want to extend my gratitude to the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) and all our venue partners for their continuous support. The ability to concentrate our training and youth initiatives in Abu Dhabi will help us solidify Afghanistan’s place in international cricket while focusing on the next generation of talent, “he added.