As Washington ramps up pressure on Iran to destabilize the China–Russia–Iran alliance, the real fallout may be felt far from the front lines—in the heart of Central Asia. This article unpacks how U.S. and Israeli strikes on Tehran are reshaping global power dynamics and turning Iran into a geopolitical pressure point. But for the five landlocked republics of Central Asia, the consequences are deeply practical: disrupted trade routes, volatile energy prices, and rising security risks along fragile borders. With neutrality offering little protection, the region faces a stark choice—adapt quickly or get caught in the crossfire of great-power competition.

Uzbekistan joins Asian Cricket Council, strengthening regional ties 

Uzbekistan has taken a major stride on the global sporting stage with the official induction of its national cricket body into the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), highlighting the country’s rising profile in the international cricket community.

The announcement came during the ACC conference held in Dhaka, where the Cricket Federation of Uzbekistan (CFU) was formally welcomed as a new member. Representing Uzbekistan at the conference, CFU Chairman Aziz Mihliev hailed the development as a "historic step" in deepening the country’s ties with Asian cricket and expanding opportunities for local players.

"It [membership] connects us with the wider Asian cricket community and strengthens our ability to grow the sport locally," Mihliev stated.

He also emphasized the federation’s commitment to grassroots development, coach training, and wider youth engagement.

Uzbekistan’s cricket journey has seen remarkable progress since the CFU’s establishment in 2019. The federation became an Associate Member of the International Cricket Council (ICC) in 2022 and has since worked closely with both ICC and now ACC to introduce and institutionalize the sport across the country.

Thanks to translated ICC training materials and structured outreach, cricket has been integrated into the curricula of 253 sports schools, making it accessible to children and youth in all 14 regions of Uzbekistan. Over 4,000 players currently participate regularly in matches and training sessions, from Tashkent to Surkhandaryo.

The CFU acknowledged the strong backing of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and key government stakeholders in advancing sports infrastructure and Olympic values in the country. Uzbekistan’s flag was raised during the ACC meeting, symbolizing the nation’s arrival as a recognized cricketing force in Asia.

“With the support of the ICC and ACC, we are committed to creating more opportunities for young Uzbeks to experience this global sport,” Mihliev added.

As the official governing body for cricket in the country, the CFU is focused on developing professional pathways through investments in coaching, youth competitions, and dedicated cricket facilities in cities such as Tashkent, Chirchiq, and Samarkand. These initiatives are laying the groundwork for the formation of Uzbekistan’s first international cricket team.

The membership in the ACC not only affirms Uzbekistan’s progress in the sport but also opens the door to regional tournaments and further collaborations with established cricketing nations across Asia.