Shahzada Masoud named Afghanistan board chairman

Shahzada Masoud, the advisor to the Afghanistan president on tribal affairs, has been named chairman of the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) for an indefinite term. He takes over from another political figure, Omar Zakhilwal, who resigned from the board due to his commitments as the country's minister of finance.

Masoud had a stint as the ACB president six years ago, and since then cricket has progressed significantly. The team has qualified for two World Twenty20 tournaments and has gained Affiliate status with the ICC. At a press conference at the ACB headquarters in Kabul, he emphasised the need to have a strong relationship with the ICC and improve the facilities around the country.

"We are hoping to be promoted as an (ICC) Associate member soon and that will be a good boost for us," Masoud said. "The Afghanistan cricket team currently has a good reputation and I have assured a good relationship with the staff and will work as a unit for the improvement of Afghanistan cricket.

"Afghanistan has no lengthy history in cricket but the game has gained a lot of popularity and it's growing significantly. What's required in the country is more grounds and facilities like setting up a national academy. I wish to build a strong relationship with the world cricket body as well as the other boards. The team has gained a good reputation and the future of cricket looks bright."