Asian Legends League: Thrilling Start Amidst Excitement

Nathdwara: The much-anticipated Asian Legends League 2025 commenced with grandeur at Madan Paliwal Miraj Sports Center, Nathdwara. The first match of the tournament saw Asian Stars clinch a 6-wicket victory against Afghanistan Pathans in an electrifying contest on March 10.

Afghanistan Pathans won the toss and elected to bat first. Their playing XI featured Asghar Afghan (Captain/Wicketkeeper), Ashraf Pathan, Ayan Khan, Khalid Khatib, Gurpreet, Mousib Khan, Mahbub Alam, Farman Ahmad, Shoaib Khan, Asad Pathan, and Sehjad Khan Pathan. Meanwhile, Asian Stars fielded Dilshan Munawera, Kashyap Prajapati, Mehran Khan (Captain), Swapnil Patil (Wicketkeeper), Rishi Dhawan, Raghav Dhawan, Ankit Narwal, Pawan Suyal, Ishwar Pandey, Tinu Kundu, and Sarul Kanwar.

Afghanistan Pathans posted a formidable 216/3 in 20 overs. However, Asian Stars chased the target with 221/4 in 19.5 overs, securing a thrilling win. Mehran Khan was named Man of the Match for his stellar 109-run performance, while Pawan Suyal gave Asian Stars an early edge with two wickets in the first over.

Bangladesh Cricket Board’s Decision Cancels Second Match

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) refused to grant a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to its players and officials, barring them from participating in the league. Citing non-recognition of the tournament, the BCB warned players against violating its directive, stating that disciplinary action would be taken if they participated.

League Officials Disappointed Over Last-Minute Restrictions

Asian Legends League CEO Mahavir Prasad Sharma and organizer Ravi Kumar Yadav expressed their disappointment over BCB's sudden decision. They stated that BCB issued the directive on the first day of the league, barring its players without prior notice. The officials argued that such a condition had never been imposed before and was unnecessary, particularly for retired players no longer representing their national teams.

Despite this setback, the Asian Legends League promises more thrilling encounters as it progresses.