Taliban blocks radio cricket broadcasts in Kandahar

Taliban authorities have banned radio stations in the southern Afghan city of Kandahar from airing any content about cricket. The provincial Information and Culture Department gave this order to local broadcasters on November 14, 2026.

The Broadcast Ban

Two local broadcasters and an official source confirmed the new rule. Radio stations can no longer broadcast match commentary, news reports, or even updates about winning results. The officials did not give any further reasons for the sudden order. Afghanistan's national cricket board did not respond to requests for comment on the decision.

Wider Sports Restrictions

While the central government previously hosted cricket matches to celebrate its return to power in August, local authorities in Kandahar have now stopped radio coverage. Kandahar serves as the home base for the country's supreme leader. The Taliban has already banned mixed martial arts and stopped women and girls from visiting gyms and playing sports. However, men and boys are still allowed to play cricket, and the men's national team is currently playing a Test match against Zimbabwe in Sharjah.

Context

Radio remains a key source of news and sports updates for many people in Afghanistan due to limited internet access in many areas. Kandahar holds major political and religious importance as the base of the Taliban's leadership. Regional orders by local departments often set strict cultural rules that differ across Afghan provinces.