![Waqar Younis [Source: AFP]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1792908195508_WaqarYounis.jpg?type=hq)
Waqar Younis [Source: AFP]
Former Pakistan captain Waqar Younis is set to take on a new role in franchise cricket after being named an ambassador for Team Paktia in the upcoming Afghanistan Premier League.
The appointment comes as the tournament prepares to return after a lengthy absence, bringing together international cricketing names to represent its five franchises.
Alongside Waqar Younis, several former international stars have also joined the league's promotional setup, adding experience and recognition to the competition ahead of its much-awaited return.
Waqar Younis to represent Team Paktia in APL 2026
Waqar Younis, one of Pakistan's most celebrated fast bowlers, will represent Team Paktia as an ambassador in the upcoming edition of the Afghanistan Premier League.
The appointment marks his first official association with the tournament, which is preparing for a fresh start after the original competition was discontinued following its inaugural season in 2018.
Younis brings considerable international cricketing experience to the role. During his playing career, he established himself as one of the leading fast bowlers of his generation and later served Pakistan cricket in coaching and mentoring capacities.
While the precise responsibilities of each ambassador have not been detailed, their experience and recognition could prove valuable as the APL seeks to establish itself in the competitive franchise T20 landscape.
Irfan Pathan, Tillakaratne Dilshan, Mark Boucher also join APL franchises
Alongside Waqar Younis, four other former international cricketers have been announced as ambassadors for the APL's five franchises.
Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan will represent Kandahar Warriors, while former Sri Lanka batter Tillakaratne Dilshan has been associated with Balkh Zwanan.
Former South Africa wicketkeeper-batter and coach Mark Boucher will represent Nangarhar, while former India cricketer Nikhil Chopra has been named ambassador for Axcel United Kabul.
Together, the five appointments give each franchise a recognised cricketing personality as the league prepares for its return.
APL looking forward to a fresh start
The new edition of APL will feature five franchises, Axcel United Kabul, Balkh Zwanan, Kandahar Warriors, Team Paktia and Nangarhar.
The ACB has also unveiled the Koh-E-Zafar trophy, whose name translates to "Mountain of Victory" and whose design draws inspiration from Afghanistan's mountainous landscape.
With the ambassador appointments in place, attention now turns to the upcoming player draft and the final preparations for the tournament.
.jpg?type=mq "IND-W vs ZIM-W 2nd ODI - Where To Watch?")
