Afghanistan withdraw from Pakistan T20I tri-series following Paktika attack: Details
What's the story
The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has withdrawn from the upcoming Tri-Nation T20I Series against Pakistan and Sri Lanka. The decision comes in the wake of a tragic incident that saw three young Afghan cricketers killed in an attack in the Urgun District of Paktika Province. The ACB said this was a "cowardly act" by the Pakistani regime and expressed deep sorrow over the loss. Notably, the tri-series was scheduled to take place next month in Rawalpindi and Lahore.
Official statement
'Cowardly act by Pakistani regime'
In an official statement, the ACB said, "The Afghanistan Cricket Board expresses its deepest sorrow and grief over the tragic martyrdom of the brave cricketers from Urgun District in Paktika Province, who were targeted this evening in a cowardly attack carried out by the Pakistani regime." The board described this as a major loss for Afghanistan's sporting community and extended condolences to the families of those martyred.
Incident details
Three players killed in attack
The three players, Kabeer, Sibghatullah, and Haroon, were targeted after returning home from a friendly cricket match in Sharana. They were attending a local gathering when the attack happened. Along with these players, five other civilians from Urgun District were also martyred in the attack while seven others sustained injuries.
Player reactions
Rashid, Farooqi back ACB's decision
Senior Afghan cricketers Rashid Khan and Fazalhaq Farooqi have welcomed the ACB's decision to withdraw from the Tri-series. Rashid condemned the attack as "absolutely immoral and barbaric," while Farooqi expressed his support for the ACB's decision in light of the innocent lives lost. He said, "I stand with our people at this difficult time, our national dignity must come before all else."
Ceasefire violation
Pakistan resumes airstrikes in Paktika
On Friday, Pakistan carried out airstrikes in Paktika province, breaking a 48-hour ceasefire agreement between the two countries. The strikes reportedly targeted residential areas in the Urgun and Barmal districts. Earlier, Pakistan had also sought an extension of the ceasefire until the Doha talks aimed at defusing tensions and preventing cross-border violence were concluded.
Twitter Post
Here is the post!
Statement of Condolence
— Afghanistan Cricket Board (@ACBofficials) October 17, 2025
The Afghanistan Cricket Board expresses its deepest sorrow and grief over the tragic martyrdom of the brave cricketers from Urgun District in Paktika Province, who were targeted this evening in a cowardly attack carried out by the Pakistani regime.
In… pic.twitter.com/YkenImtuVR