Asian Legends League Moves to Zambia Amid Middle East Tensions

The Asian Legends League (ALL) is taking its second season to Africa for the first time, with the tournament set to be held in Lusaka, Zambia, from July 30 to August 10, 2026. The move comes as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have created logistical challenges for the league, which had originally planned to host the event within Asia.

League Commissioner Chetan Sharma confirmed that the decision was a direct response to the volatile situation in parts of the Middle East. “Due to the prevailing geopolitical tensions and resulting logistical challenges, we have decided to host Season 2 in Zambia,” Sharma said. “This is the first and only time the tournament is being held outside Asia. From next season onwards, we intend to bring the league back to Asia, where it truly belongs.”

The tournament will feature six country-based franchises: Indian Royals, Sri Lankan Lions, Bangladesh Tigers, Afghanistan Pathans, Pakistan Panthers, and Rest of Asian Stars. Notable players include Yusuf Pathan (Indian Royals), Thisara Perera (Sri Lankan Lions), Shakib Al Hasan (Bangladesh Tigers), Asghar Afghan (Afghanistan Pathans), Mohammad Hafeez (Pakistan Panthers), and Tillakaratne Dilshan (Rest of Asian Stars).

Other legends such as Ambati Rayudu, Naman Ojha, Upul Tharanga, and Saeed Ajmal are also set to participate. Widely regarded as the “Retired Players’ Asia Cup,” the ALL aims to celebrate Asian cricket’s rich heritage while delivering an exciting T20 format.

Article source: srilankasource.com | Image credit: Big News Network.com