Rahmat Shah Takes Over as Afghanistan’s Test and ODI Captain
The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has appointed Rahmat Shah as the new captain of the men’s Test and ODI teams, following the resignation of Hashmatullah Shahidi.
The announcement comes just a day after Shahidi stepped down from the leadership role, bringing an end to a successful captaincy stint that saw Afghanistan continue their rise in international cricket.
Shahidi Ends Successful Captaincy Spell
Hashmatullah Shahidi led Afghanistan through one of the most memorable phases in the team’s history.
Under his captaincy, Afghanistan produced impressive performances at the 2023 ODI World Cup, registering memorable victories against top teams and securing qualification for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy for the first time.
With the next ODI World Cup scheduled for 2027, Shahidi has decided to hand over the captaincy as Afghanistan begin preparations for the future.
The Afghanistan Cricket Board thanked Shahidi for his leadership and contribution, wishing him success for the next chapter of his career.
Rahmat Shah Earns Leadership Role
Rahmat Shah’s appointment is seen as a natural progression after serving as vice-captain since 2021.
One of Afghanistan’s most experienced batters, Rahmat is the country’s highest run-scorer in both Test and ODI cricket, making him one of the senior figures in the squad.
His experience and consistency were key factors behind the board’s decision to promote him as captain.
Gurbaz Named Vice-Captain
Star wicketkeeper-batter Rahmanullah Gurbaz has been appointed as the new vice-captain.
The young opener has become one of Afghanistan’s most important white-ball players in recent years and is expected to play a significant leadership role alongside Rahmat Shah.
First Assignment in Ireland
Rahmat Shah’s first series as Afghanistan captain will be the upcoming five-match ODI series against Ireland.
The series will mark the beginning of a new leadership era as Afghanistan continue building towards the 2027 ODI World Cup and other major ICC events.
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