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Afghanistan-Sri Lanka Cricket Series Postponed Due to Middle East Conflict

BBC Sport •
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Afghanistan's cricket series against Sri Lanka has been postponed from March to the final quarter of 2026 due to ongoing Middle East conflict. The Afghanistan Cricket Board confirmed the decision, citing flight constraints and logistical challenges stemming from the regional situation. The matches were originally scheduled to take place in the UAE, with T20 internationals in Sharjah and ODIs in Dubai.

Three Twenty20 International matches were set for March 13, 15, and 17 in Sharjah, followed by three one-day internationals in Dubai on March 20, 22, and 25. The postponement reflects growing concerns about travel safety and operational disruptions across the region. This decision comes amid widespread travel disruption following US and Israeli air strikes on Iran earlier this month.

The postponement adds to cricket's logistical challenges, as the West Indies team recently announced they would return home from the T20 World Cup via commercial flights after being stranded in Kolkata. The UAE has reopened its airspace after a week of restrictions, though Dubai International Airport experienced drone incidents that injured four people. These developments highlight how geopolitical tensions continue to impact international sports scheduling and player safety.