Cricket fans across Asia and Africa may soon witness the revival of a unique cricket tournament: the Afro-Asia Cup. Last held in 2007, this series between an Asian XI and an African XI is now being planned for a comeback, thanks to efforts by the Africa Cricket Association (ACA).
Role of the Africa Cricket Association (ACA)
Recently, the ACA held its Annual General Meeting, where it appointed a six-person interim committee to revitalize African cricket. One of their top priorities? Bringing back the Afro-Asia Cup. By restructuring and creating more competitive opportunities, the ACA hopes to foster better cricket development in Africa.
To make the Afro-Asia Cup a reality, the ACA is in talks with the Asian Cricket Council (ACC). Both organizations are motivated to revive the tournament, which could set a precedent for more cross-continental events. Beyond cricket, the Afro-Asia Cup has significant financial implications. As interim ACA chair Tavengwa Mukuhlani mentioned, the tournament will provide much-needed revenue.
“The Afro-Asia Cup, apart from the cricket, brings the much-needed financial input to the organisation, and the appetite is huge from both ends. We have had conversations with our counterparts within the Asia Cricket Council, and obviously our African contingents, they want the Afro-Asia Cup to be revived”, Tavengwa Mukuhlani, interim chair of the ACA, who is also the Zimbabwe Cricket Chair, said at a press conference.
Challenges Facing the Afro-Asia Cup Revival
Reviving a tournament like the Afro-Asia Cup comes with challenges. Logistical issues such as coordinating schedules, choosing suitable venues, and securing broadcasting rights are complex tasks. Furthermore, political sensitivities, particularly involving India and Pakistan, could impact participation and planning. However, the ACA and ACC remain optimistic about overcoming these obstacles.
Africa Premier League
Apart from the Afro-Asia Cup, the ACA is planning to launch the Africa Premier League, a T20 tournament inspired by the Indian Premier League (IPL). CEO Cassim Suliman described it as a mini version of the IPL, aiming to provide a platform for African players to showcase their skills. The league would bring new sponsorship opportunities and boost cricket’s popularity across the continent.
South Africa’s SA20 league, launched in 2023, is currently the continent’s only franchise T20 competition. The Africa Premier League is expected to be more inclusive, potentially featuring teams from multiple African nations. By involving countries like Zimbabwe and others, the league could foster greater participation and competitive growth.
Choosing the right venues will be crucial for the Afro-Asia Cup and the Africa Premier League. South Africa, with its well-established stadiums, is a likely host, but other countries like Kenya and Zimbabwe may also play a role. Selecting spectator-friendly locations will ensure high attendance and enthusiastic support from fans.
The Afro-Asia Cup and the Africa Premier League offer promising opportunities for emerging cricket nations in Africa. These tournaments could help smaller countries like Kenya, Uganda, and Namibia develop their cricketing talent by allowing them to compete with and learn from more established teams.
Get the latest cricket news here, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter and Instagram for more such updates.
