Afghanistan appoint Rahmat Shah as new ODI and Test captain
New Delhi, July 22
Afghanistan have named Rahmat Shah as the new captain of their ODI and Test sides after Hashmatullah Shahidi stepped down from the leadership role, according to the ICC website.
Rahmat, who made his international debut in 2013, brings extensive experience to the role, having featured in 128 ODIs and 12 Tests for Afghanistan.
Rahmat previously served as Shahidi's deputy during a successful phase for Afghanistan cricket, which included an impressive run at the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023.
Afghanistan came close to reaching the knockout stage after securing notable wins over England, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and the Netherlands. The team also achieved historic qualification for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 for the first time.
Along with Rahmat's appointment as captain, Rahmanullah Gurbaz has been named vice-captain of Afghanistan's ODI and Test teams.
Rahmat Shah's first challenge as Afghanistan captain will come in the upcoming ODI series against Ireland, beginning on August 5.
Shahidi announced his decision through a post on social media on Wednesday. The left-handed batter did not specify the reason behind his decision while announcing his resignation on social media.
"Today I announce with full respect and consent that I am resigning as captain of my team at my personal decision. It was a great honour for me to perform this responsibility as a Captain. I am proud to have served alongside my team with honesty, unity and commitment. By the grace of Allah, with the efforts of the officials, coaches and players, we have achieved many victories, won important matches, defeated big teams and made the name of the team higher," Shahidi said, as quoted by ICC.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Afghanistan cricket has come a long way. Beating England and Pakistan in the World Cup was no fluke. Under Rahmat, who was vice-captain during that time, they can only get better. Gurbaz as VC is a smart choice too — that guy can destroy any bowling attack on his day! 🔥
Shahidi's statement is very dignified. He led with honesty and unity, and those wins over England and Pakistan were historic. But captaincy is a heavy burden, especially when you're expected to perform as a batsman too. Rahmat is a solid replacement, but I hope the ACB gives him proper support and doesn't interfere.
Interesting move. Rahmat Shah is reliable but not flashy. Afghanistan need someone to handle the pressure in big tournaments, especially with the Champions Trophy coming up. Gurbaz as VC is exciting though — he brings energy. Hope this works out for them.
Shahidi's resignation is a bit sudden. He didn't specify a reason, but captaincy changes often have underlying issues. Anyway, Afghanistan's rise in world cricket is inspiring. From associate nation to beating top teams — that's a story of sheer grit. Rahmat Shah has big shoes to fill. 🇦🇫🏏
Rahmat Shah is a good player but captaincy is a different beast. Remember how Afghanistan struggled with consistency in the past? Shahidi brought them stability. Hope Rahmat can continue that momentum. The series against Ireland will be a good test.
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