ASADULLAH KHAN, former Afghanistan coach and chief selector, has been appointed as the tournament director for the Silver Jubilee Edition of the Gulf Cup 2025, which begins on 15 November in Sharjah. A key figure in Afghanistan’s cricketing evolution, Asadullah credited the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for playing a transformative role in the nation’s cricketing rise.
He highlighted that the IPL has been instrumental in enhancing Afghanistan’s cricketing standards by offering players exposure to elite competition and world-class facilities. Reflecting on his extensive career in international coaching and cricket administration, Asadullah said his current focus is on nurturing grassroots development and creating pathways for young talent.
Over the past 25 years, the Gulf Cup has become a launchpad for future international stars including Ben Stokes, Mark Wood, Ollie Robinson, and Vriitya Aravind, among others. The Gulf Cup 2025 is the world’s largest youth cricket tournament, celebrating its 25th Silver Jubilee Edition this year. It brings together school and academy teams from across the globe to promote youth cricket, international exposure, and cultural exchange, per the media release.
The tournament will run from 15 to 26 December across Sharjah, Dubai, and Ajman, featuring venues such as Karwan, MCC, Eden Garden, Oval, and Seven District grounds. It is jointly organised by MS YTCA at Sharjah Stadium and Cricketaaa.
The competition will feature five age categories: Under-10, Under-12, Under-14, Under-16, and Under-18. With each team guaranteed a minimum of four matches. All fixtures will be played in a 25-over format with professional umpires and online scoring.
Asadullah said, “It is a great honour for me to take on the role of Director for the Gulf Cup 2025 — a tournament that has proudly completed 25 years of success, growth, and contribution to cricket in the region. Over the years, this event has produced countless young talents and has been a platform for developing the next generation of cricketers across the Gulf and beyond. This Silver Jubilee edition is not just a celebration of the past but a new chapter in the journey toward excellence.”
“I invite everyone — players, coaches, and cricket lovers — to join us in celebrating this Silver Jubilee and supporting the growth of youth cricket in the Gulf region. With international participation, strong partnerships, and the passion of players, I’m confident this will be the most memorable and impactful tournament yet,” he added.
