U.S. Travel Ban Casts Doubt on Afghan Players’ Participation in MLC 2025
The participation of Afghanistan’s top T20 cricketers in the 2025 Major League Cricket (MLC) season is now in jeopardy following a new travel ban signed by U.S. President Donald Trump. The executive order, effective from June 9 at 12:01 AM ET, blocks nationals from 12 countries—including Afghanistan—from entering the United States if they are currently outside the country and do not hold valid visas.
This decision comes just days before the MLC 2025 season begins on June 12, putting seven Afghan cricketers’ participation at risk. Notable names include:
- Rashid Khan, Azmatullah Omarzai, and Naveen-ul-Haq (MI New York)
- Gulbadin Naib, Fazalhaq Farooqi, and Waqar Salamkheil (Seattle Orcas)
- Noor Ahmad (Texas Super Kings)
President Trump cited “national security and the national interest of the United States” as the primary reasons behind the ban.
Hope Remains Through Possible Exemptions and Early Entry Plans
The proclamation includes a clause that could offer a lifeline: exemptions for “athletes or members of athletic teams” participating in “major sporting events” like the World Cup or Olympics, provided the U.S. Secretary of State grants that status.
As of now, it’s unclear whether Major League Cricket qualifies under this exemption. However, MLC officials remain optimistic. A league spokesperson told ESPNcricinfo that they are “working with the relevant authorities to minimize travel disruptions,” and they are hopeful Secretary of State Marco Rubio will recognize MLC as a major sporting event.
Some Afghan players have reportedly secured their U.S. visas and entered the country, while others are racing against time to complete the process or fly in before the ban takes effect. Franchises are actively exploring contingency plans, including fast-tracking travel arrangements for players who are still abroad.
An MLC franchise official commented, “We will lean on MLC and other relevant authorities for guidance.”
Despite the uncertainty, the league is pushing ahead with preparations for its biggest season yet. The 2025 MLC campaign kicks off with a blockbuster opening match: a rematch of last year’s final between Washington Freedom and San Francisco, set to take place at the Oakland Coliseum.
Although the travel ban may complicate matters this summer, it specifically recognizes the Olympics as a qualifying event. This opens the door for Afghan cricketers to potentially participate in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, assuming Afghanistan’s men’s T20 team qualifies.
Final Thoughts
With MLC growing in stature and attracting top-tier international talent, the outcome of this travel ban could have long-lasting effects on the league and the players involved. All eyes now turn to Washington, where a decision from the Secretary of State could determine whether Afghan stars will grace the U.S. cricket stage this summer.
