The Hidden Role of BCCI in Afghanistan’s Emergence in World Cricket

The rise of Afghanistan in world cricket has been nothing short of a fairytale. Becoming full members of the International Cricket Council in 2017, the team reached the semi-finals of a World Cup (T20) in 2024 for the first time. Often considered underdogs, Afghanistan surprised everyone with their performances in the T20 World Cup, defeating teams like New Zealand and Australia to reach the semi-finals. While the players deserve credit for their exceptional performances, India and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) also played a significant role in their rise.

India and BCCI contributed to Afghanistan’s success in several ways. The Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Sports Complex in Greater Noida became Afghanistan’s temporary home ground in 2015, thanks to the BCCI. Afghanistan played international matches against Ireland in Greater Noida in 2017, and also hosted a Twenty20 series against Bangladesh in Dehradun. The BCCI provided facilities and a platform for Afghanistan to excel in cricket.

Indian coaches such as Lalchand Rajput, Manoj Prabhakar, and Ajay Jadeja have all coached the Afghanistan team in the past. Jadeja served as their mentor during the ODI World Cup 2023. The BCCI invited then-Afghanistan president Ashraf Ghani to watch the team play its first Test match in Bengaluru, strengthening relations between the two nations and teams.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has played a significant role in the success of Afghanistan players. Many Afghan players participate in the IPL, earning a lucrative salary and gaining valuable experience that benefits not only their own game but also inspires other players in the country. The number of Afghan players in the IPL has increased over the years, and this trend is expected to continue growing.