Afghan Players Killed in Paktika:
The lives of 3 Afghan cricketers have been tragically cut short in an attack by Pakistan. This heartbreaking incident occurred in the Urgun district of Paktika province, where the Pakistani assault led to the death of cricketers Kabir, Sibghatullah, and Haroon, amongst eight other casualties. An additional seven individuals sustained injuries. In response, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has swiftly moved into action.
The ACB has decided to abstain from participating in the upcoming tri-series with Pakistan and Sri Lanka in the wake of this militaristic assault in Paktika province.
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The cricket board expressed deep sorrow over the cricketers' martyrdom, deeming it a significant loss to the country's sports, notably cricket. This T20 tri-series was slated to be hosted in Afghanistan, with Sri Lanka and Pakistan next month in November.
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It is worth noting that tensions have been simmering at the border between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Both countries had agreed to extend a 48-hour ceasefire, but just a few hours later, the Taliban accused Pakistan of conducting airstrikes in Afghanistan's Paktika province. Pakistani forces carried out aerial attacks in several districts close to the Durand Line. The ACB shared an extensive post detailing the attack that claimed the lives of eight people, including cricketers Kabir, Sibghatullah, and Haroon, and injured seven others. The deceased athletes were in Sharana, the capital of Paktika, for a friendly match and were attacked upon returning to Urgun for a gathering. In a statement, the ACB said, 'May Allah (SWT) grant the martyrs a high place in paradise, heal the injured swiftly, and give strength and patience to the families during this difficult time.'
