Paktika, Afghanistan – October 18, 2025:
Three young Afghan cricketers were among ten people killed in a Pakistani airstrike on the Urgun district of Paktika province on Friday night, sparking outrage across Afghanistan and condemnation from the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB).
According to Afghan officials, the airstrike hit a civilian gathering shortly after a friendly match in Sharana, the provincial capital. The victims were identified as Kabeer Agha, Sibghatullah Zirok, and Haroon — all local players from the Urgun region who had represented their clubs in regional tournaments.
The ACB called the deaths a “huge loss for the cricketing family and the nation” and announced the withdrawal of Afghanistan’s national team from the upcoming T20 Tri-Series in Pakistan, which was set to feature Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Sri Lanka.
The Players Lost
- Kabeer Agha – A promising top-order batsman known for his aggressive stroke play. Coaches described him as one of the brightest young prospects from southern Afghanistan.
- Sibghatullah Zirok – A medium-fast bowler and emerging leader in local cricket circles, admired for his discipline and sportsmanship.
- Haroon – An all-rounder who balanced college education with his passion for cricket, often playing in local T20 and tape-ball tournaments.
All three were in their early 20s and dreamed of representing Afghanistan internationally. Their deaths highlight the human cost of ongoing border tensions and the fragility of civilian life in conflict-affected regions.
Broader Impact
The strike violated a recently extended ceasefire between the two nations and drew sharp criticism from the Afghan government and sports community. Cricket stars, including national captain Rashid Khan, expressed grief, calling the incident “a heartbreaking loss for Afghan cricket.”
Diplomatic talks have been scheduled in Doha, Qatar, as Pakistan faces mounting pressure to explain the strike, which it claims targeted militant hideouts.
For now, Afghanistan mourns three young men whose dreams ended too soon — symbols of hope, talent, and unity in a nation where sport has often been a rare source of joy.
The tragic loss of these young cricketers is a reminder of how conflict impacts even the most peaceful parts of society — including sports. Stay updated with verified reports, live cricket updates, and the latest sports headlines.
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