5 Afghan cricket players killed by gunman

KABUL: An Afghan official says a gunman on a motorcycle opened fire at a group of local cricket players, killing five of them during a game in eastern Laghman province.

A provincial spokesman, Sarhadii Zhouak, says the attack took place on Thursday in Alinghar district.

He says the attacker fled the scene. There was no immediate claim of responsibility but Zhouak blamed the Taliban.

When the Taliban ruled the country, they severely restricted sports and public celebrations.

Afghan President Hamid Karzai issued a statement condemning the attack. (AP)