Johannesburg, November 5, 2024 – The Afro-Asia Cup, a series of white-ball matches between an Asian XI and an African XI, may be revived after almost 20 years, according to the Africa Cricket Association (ACA). During its recent AGM, the ACA appointed a six-member interim committee to reorganize the association and boost competitive opportunities for African players.
One of the committee’s goals is to collaborate with the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) to revive cross-continental tournaments like the Afro-Asia Cup. Originally played in 2005 in South Africa and 2007 in India, a 2009 edition was canceled, but plans are now underway to bring it back. This tournament would also give players from India and Pakistan, who currently do not compete in bilateral series, a chance to play on the same Asia XI team.
“The Afro-Asia Cup is crucial for the ACA, both for cricket and financial stability,” ACA interim chair and Zimbabwe Cricket Chair, Tavengwa Mukuhlani, said. “There is strong interest from both Asia and Africa to revive the tournament.”
Although ACC representatives have not confirmed any formal discussions, previous tournaments saw India and Pakistan’s top players sharing the field, including Rahul Dravid, MS Dhoni, Sachin Tendulkar, and Shoaib Akhtar. While bilateral cricket between India and Pakistan remains limited to ICC events since 2008, this cup could offer a unique avenue for collaboration. Additionally, the ACA is considering launching the Africa Premier League, a smaller version of the IPL, aimed at bringing top talent together. “We’re planning a mini-IPL format, called the Africa Premier League, to grow local interest and viewership,” said ACA CEO Cassim Suliman. South Africa’s SA20 league currently leads franchise cricket in Africa, but Mukuhlani hopes the new league can involve South African franchises and Zimbabwean players, enriching the competition with their experience.
