The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has launched construction work on the Kabul International Cricket Complex in the Alokhel area of Kabul’s (Afghanistan) 16th district with an estimated investment of $45 million.
The ACB Chairman Mirwais Ashraf said the construction of such facilities would play a vital role in the growth and development of cricket in Afghanistan.
‘pajhwok.com’ stated that speaking at an event held on the occasion Mumtaz Omarzai, Head of the Afghanistan Cricket Board’s Engineering Department, informed that the complex would be built on 86 jeribs (traditional units of land area) of land in the Alokhel area.
He stated that the project is expected to cost around $45 million and will be completed within six years.
Kabul-based the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB), formerly the Afghanistan Cricket Federation, is the official governing body of cricket in Afghanistan.
International Standards
Stated Omarzai, “Three grounds will be constructed as part of the complex. One will serve as the main stadium with a seating capacity of 40,000 spectators while the other two will function as secondary grounds.”
‘pajhwok.com’ further stated that according to him, all the stadiums within the complex will be built to international standards and will be equipped with floodlighting systems for the day-night matches.
Cricket Academy
Omarzai further stated that a Cricket Academy featuring 25 practice pitches would be established within the complex.
Ashraf added that the stadiums would meet all international requirements and provide modern facilities for hosting global cricket events.
He further stated that the Cricket Board aims to invite the foreign teams to Kabul once the complex is completed thus paving the way for the hosting of international matches in Afghanistan.
Kabul International Cricket Complex
The Kabul International Cricket Complex will feature a main stadium and two oval grounds. The complex will be equipped with world-class facilities including a large guest house, a mosque, a royal Box, player facilities, and an advanced floodlighting system for the night matches. Additionally, chic space for media and the commentary rooms will be integrated along with the other essential amenities.
Beyond the playing grounds the complex will also house a 25-pitch standard academy and a fully equipped indoor academy. The other facilities will include a parking area, swimming pool, sauna, office spaces, rehabilitation center, meeting rooms, gym, and more.
Sports Development
Dr. Mawlawi Abdul Wasi, General Director of the Prime Minister’s Office, highlighted the commitment of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan to sports development noting that the Government is placing special focus on sports.
He stated, “Recently, athletes from various countries visited Afghanistan for the Olympic Games and the Afghan people accorded them a warm welcome. We are witnessing the launch of a major project that will significantly benefit our cricket players. We hope the other organizations will follow suit and contribute to the reconstruction of Afghanistan thus turning the challenges into opportunities.”
The Afghanistan Cricket Board leadership also shared insights on the Kabul International Cricket Complex and the other ongoing development projects. They reiterated their focus on stadium construction and the expansion of the cricket infrastructure which remains a top priority for the Board. The other attendees at the ceremony also praised the ACB’s efforts and recognized the importance of sports in the Afghan society.
Najibullah Tarakai Cricket Stadium
In addition to the above complex the master plan for the Najibullah Tarakai Cricket Stadium is nearing completion. Similar projects for cricket grounds in Kandahar, Khost and the other regions will follow thus enhancing Afghanistan’s cricket infrastructure.
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