Afghanistan vs Sri Lanka series gets new dates after cancellation due to West Asia war

The upcoming white-ball series between Afghanistan and Sri Lanka has been canceled due to the West Asia war. The bilateral series between Afghanistan and Sri Lanka was originally set to commence on March 13 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) but has been rescheduled to the last quarter of 2026.

The two teams were scheduled to play three T20 Internationals in Sharjah followed by three One-Day Internationals in Dubai. However, the regional situation and flight constraints across the Middle East have disrupted international travel, forcing the concerned organizers to put the cricket series on hold.

Afghanistan Cricket Board Issues An Official Statement

The ACB released an official statement after the crisis involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. The board highlighted that its initial preparations were completed, but unforeseen developments in the region severely affected its operational planning.

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"The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) announces that the Afghanistan vs Sri Lanka bilateral series has been rescheduled to the last quarter of 2026 due to logistical challenges, including flight constraints arising from the ongoing regional situation," the statement read.

"Following the receipt of the required sanction from the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB), preparations had been finalized for hosting the matches across the two venues. However, in early March, unforeseen developments created logistical constraints that affected travel arrangements and operational planning for the series."

Logistical Challenges Remained Beyond Operational Control - ACB

The cricket board stated that they held consultations with the Emirates Cricket Board and local stadiums in early March, but logistical challenges remained entirely beyond their control, forcing the decision to postpone.

"Despite the collective efforts of all parties to proceed with the event as planned, the logistical challenges remained beyond operational control, leading to the decision to postpone the series and explore rescheduling options," the statement added.

"Throughout this process, the Sri Lanka Cricket Board (SLC) was kept fully informed, and the decision to postpone the series was made in consultation and with the consent of Sri Lanka Cricket."

"The preferred venue for the rescheduled series remains the United Arab Emirates, and the new dates will be announced in due course following further coordination between the respective boards and stakeholders."

ACB Remains Committed to Delivering the Series vs Sri Lanka

Afghanistan and Sri Lanka had disappointing campaigns during the recent T20 World Cup 2026. The Afghan side was knocked out during the group stage, finishing in third place in Group D. Meanwhile, the co-hosts Sri Lanka managed to qualify for the Super 8s.

After finishing second in Group B, the Sri Lankan side failed to qualify for the semi-finals. They finished last in their respective group, ending their global tournament run on a bitter note.

"The Afghanistan Cricket Board extends its sincere appreciation to the Emirates Cricket Board, Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Dubai International Cricket Stadium, and Sri Lanka Cricket for their continued cooperation and support in addressing this matter and safeguarding the interests of all parties involved."

"ACB remains committed to delivering the series at the earliest suitable opportunity and to continuing its strong cricketing relationship with Sri Lanka Cricket."

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