The potential revival of the Afro-Asia Cup has gained momentum following the recent Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Africa Cricket Association (ACA). During this meeting, an interim committee was established to enhance the organizational structure of the ACA and to broaden the competitive landscape for cricket players in Africa.
One of the committee’s key objectives is to engage with other cricket organizations, specifically the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), to explore collaborative opportunities like the Afro-Asia Cup.
Previously contested in 2005 and 2007, the Afro-Asia Cup has remained dormant since an anticipated third edition, set for 2009 in Kenya, never materialized. Tavengwa Mukuhlani, the interim chair of the ACA, who also heads Zimbabwe Cricket, expressed optimism about resurrecting the tournament.
He emphasized that the Afro-Asia Cup is not just about cricket; it plays a crucial role in generating financial resources for the organization. “There is significant interest from both African and Asian cricketing bodies to see this Cup return,” Mukuhlani stated, highlighting ongoing conversations with the ACC.
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While discussions around the Afro-Asia Cup have generated excitement, it is important to note that no formal request has yet been submitted to the ACC, nor have there been any discussions regarding this matter at the ACC’s recent meeting in Malaysia.
In its inaugural 2005 series, the three-match ODI showdown ended in a 1-1 tie, with the 2007 edition seeing the Asia XI claim victory in all three contests. Notably, that 2007 team featured illustrious players such as MS Dhoni, Sachin Tendulkar, and Yuvraj Singh, illustrating the high caliber of talent that the Afro-Asia Cup could attract if revived.
The prospect of players from India and Pakistan teaming up in the Asia XI is particularly intriguing, as the two nations have not engaged in bilateral cricket since a limited series in 2012-2013, following heightened tensions post the 2008 Mumbai attacks. The Afro-Asia Cup could serve as a rare platform for players from both countries to collaborate on the same team, fostering unity through sport.
Beyond the revival of the Afro-Asia Cup, the ACA’s plans extend to launching the Africa Premier League, a tournament inspired by the Indian Premier League (IPL). According to Cassim Suliman, the ACA CEO, this initiative is still in the early planning stages, with the aim of creating a professional franchise league that could further elevate cricket in Africa.
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Despite currently having only one major franchise tournament—South Africa’s SA20—the ACA envisions the participation of South African and Zimbabwean players in the new league, thereby enriching the cricketing experience for emerging talent.
The revival of the Afro-Asia Cup presents a promising opportunity not only for players but for cricketing growth across continents. With enthusiastic backing from officials and organizations, the future of this unique tournament looks set for a compelling comeback.