The Shpageeza Cricket League (SCL) is Afghanistan’s maximum prestigious home T20 franchise cricket competition, established in 2013 by way of the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB). The name “Shpageeza” means “Sixes” in Pashto, symbolizing the thrilling and explosive fashion of cricket the league promotes.
This occasion not only presents nearby Afghan cricketers with global publicity however also draws overseas players, making it a celebrated occasion for cricket fans across the globe. With Afghanistan’s rise as a cricketing country, the SCL has emerged as an essential breeding ground for skills that later shines in global cricket and fundamental leagues similar to the Indian Premier League (IPL) and Big Bash League (BBL).
History of the Shpageeza Cricket League
- 2013 – Inaugural season with 5 groups.
- 2017 – League received real recognition from ICC (International Cricket Council).
- 2019 onwards – Introduction of franchises and greater expert structuring.
- 2021 – Expanded viewership with live broadcasting globally.
- Present Day – Known as a launching pad for players like Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Najibullah Zadran, and others.
Format of the Tournament
- Type: T20 Franchise Cricket
- Teams: Usually 6–8 groups participate.
- Matches: Round robin format followed by means of playoffs (Qualifier, Eliminator, Final).
- Venues: Mostly performed at Kabul International Cricket Stadium.
- Duration: Spans over 2–3 weeks with daily matches.
Teams in Shpageeza Cricket League
Over the years, the league has featured numerous franchises. Below is a table of the most critical companies:
| Team Name | City/Region Represented | Key Players | Titles Won |
| Band-e-Amir Dragons | Bamyan | Rashid Khan, Najibullah Zadran | 2 |
| Boost Defenders | Kandahar | Gulbadin Naib, Mujeeb Ur Rahman | 1 |
| Kabul Eagles | Kabul | Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Asghar Afghan | 2 |
| Mis Ainak Knights | Khost | Mohammad Nabi, Hazratullah Zazai | 1 |
| Speen Ghar Tigers | Jalalabad | Karim Janat, Usman Ghani | 1 |
| Amo Sharks | Northern Afghanistan | Noor Ali Zadran, Dawlat Zadran | 0 |
Notable Players in the Shpageeza Cricket League
The league has been a talent hub for Afghan cricket. Some of the most diagnosed names encompass:
- Rashid Khan – World-elegance spinner, global T20 superstar.
- Mohammad Nabi – Veteran all-rounder, Afghanistan’s cricketing icon.
- Mujeeb Ur Rahman – Mystery spinner, key performer in global leagues.
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz – Explosive wicketkeeper-batsman, IPL and PSL player.
- Hazratullah Zazai – Known for his six-hitting potential.
Importance of the League for Afghanistan Cricket
- Talent Development – Provides exposure for young gamers.
- Financial Growth – Brings sponsorship and media deals to Afghan cricket.
- International Recognition – Global broadcasting places Afghan cricket on the map.
- Fan Engagement – Builds a passionate cricket fanbase in Afghanistan.
- Career Pathway – Many Afghan stars were found right here earlier than IPL, PSL, and BBL.
Records & Statistics of the Shpageeza Cricket League
Here is a quick have a examine some all time information inside the event:
| Record | Player/Team | Achievement |
| Highest Team Score | Kabul Eagles | 245/3 |
| Lowest Team Score | Amo Sharks | 78 all out |
| Highest Individual Score | Hazratullah Zazai | 162* |
| Most Runs (Overall) | Rahmanullah Gurbaz | 1500+ |
| Most Wickets (Overall) | Rashid Khan | 85+ |
| Best Bowling Figures | Mujeeb Ur Rahman | 6/15 |
| Most Titles Won | Band-e-Amir Dragons & Kabul Eagles (2 each) | – |
Broadcasting & Media Coverage
The Shpageeza Cricket League has improved its attainment with TV coverage, virtual streaming, and live rating updates. Broadcasters encompass:
- RTA Sports (Afghanistan’s country wide broadcaster)
- YouTube & Facebook Live for worldwide fanatics
- Coverage in nations like India, Pakistan, UAE, UK
This increased publicity has boosted the league’s popularity and attracted overseas gamers.
Challenges Faced through the League
- Security Concerns – Afghanistan’s political instability often affects suits.
- Limited Venues – Most video video games are limited to Kabul stadiums.
- Financial Hurdles – Sponsorship demanding situations in comparison to bigger leagues.
- International Participation – At instances, overseas gamers hesitate to tour because of protection issues.
Future of the Shpageeza Cricket League
Despite worrying situations, the league has a vibrant destiny:
- Plans to increase businesses and venues.
- Increased participation from distant places players.
- Collaboration with ICC and distinct boards.
- Growing reputation on virtual platforms.
With Afghanistan’s cricket at the upward push, the Shpageeza Cricket League is about to turn out to be a prime Asian T20 league in the coming years.
Summary
The Shpageeza Cricket League (SCL) is Afghanistan’s greatest T20 franchise event organized with the resources of the Afghanistan Cricket Board. Its abilities pinnacle Afghan gamers along international stars, presenting a platform to reveal knowledge. Known for interesting matches, strength hitting, and aggressive cricket, the league continues to grow in global popularity and fan following.
FAQs About Shpageeza Cricket League
When is the Shpageeza Cricket League played?
It is typically accomplished in September or October, counting on the ACB calendar and worldwide cricket schedules.
How many corporations participate within the Shpageeza Cricket League?
Typically, 6 to 8 groups participate, representing one type of Afghan areas and provinces.
Who are the maximum success companies in the league?
Band Amir Dragons and Kabul Eagles are the most successful groups, each triumphing 2 titles.
Which Afghan players have become stars through this league?
Players like Rashid Khan, Mohammad Nabi, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, and Mujeeb Ur Rahman gained popularity through their performances in SCL.
Where are the suits performed?
Most suits are performed at the Kabul International Cricket Stadium, the house of Afghan cricket.
Is the Shpageeza Cricket League recognized internationally?
Yes, since 2017, the ICC officially recognizes the league, making its stats and statistics part of official cricket facts.
