As Afghanistan continue to make waves in international cricket, the impact of franchise leagues like the International League T20 (ILT20) on the team's growth has become increasingly evident. The ongoing ICC Champions Trophy has seen several Afghan players, including Gulbadin Naib, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Ibrahim Zadran and Rahmanullah Gurbaz, carrying their ILT20 experience into the global tournament, underlining the league's role in their development.
Afghanistan's remarkable rise reached a new high with a thrilling eight-run victory over England, knocking them out of contention. Reflecting on the team's progress, ace all-rounder Gulbadin Naib, who played for ILT20 Season 3 champions Dubai Capitals, credited the league for providing valuable exposure.