Hashmatullah Shahidi steps down as Afghanistan's ODI captain
Kabul, July 22
Top-order batter Hashmatullah Shahidi has stepped down as the captain of Afghanistan's ODI team with immediate effect. Shahidi, who took over the reins in January 2022, led the side in 55 ODIs until their 3-0 series defeat to India last month.
"After careful consideration, I have decided to step down as captain of our team. It has been a great honour to lead this team. I sincerely thank the management, coaches, my teammates, and our supporters for their trust and support throughout this journey.
"Although I am resigning as captain, I remain fully committed to serving the team as a player and wish the new captain and the team continued success," Shahidi wrote on his Instagram account.
Under his leadership, Afghanistan enjoyed one of their most successful periods in 50-over cricket, including a stellar 2023 Men's ODI World Cup in India, where Afghanistan came agonisingly close to a semi-final berth after securing famous victories over England, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and the Netherlands.
A sixth-place finish in that tournament guaranteed led to them making their debut in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, where they recorded another victory over England, though a crucial wash-out against Australia eventually halted their progression to the semi-finals.
Shahidi also led Afghanistan to impressive bilateral series wins over Bangladesh (thrice), Zimbabwe (twice), alongside series victories over South Africa and Ireland. Overall, Afghanistan won 27 of the 55 matches under his leadership.
His lone ODI century across 96 international appearances came in his final game in charge, where he struck a patient 102 off 131 balls against India in Chennai. The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) is expected to name his successor ahead of their upcoming tour of Ireland in August, featuring a five-match ODI series.
— IANS
Reader Comments
That 2023 World Cup campaign was magical. Afghanistan beating England and Pakistan - who would have thought? Shahidi led from the front. Sad to see him go as captain, but glad he's staying as a player.
Honest opinion: Shahidi's captaincy was good, but his batting form has been inconsistent. That 102 against India in his last match showed his class though. I hope the new captain can take Afghanistan to the next level. Maybe Rashid Khan should get the role? 🏏
As someone who follows Afghan cricket closely, I think Shahidi's decision shows maturity. The team has come a long way from being minnows to nearly semi-finalists in the World Cup. But losing 3-0 to India must have hurt. Time for fresh leadership, especially with the Champions Trophy coming up.
Afghanistan cricket's growth under Shahidi has been remarkable. Beating England twice in major tournaments is incredible from a team that was playing in Division 5 not too long ago. He leaves with his head held high. The ACB needs to choose wisely.
Shahidi's captaincy record of 27 wins in 55 ODIs is impressive, especially given Afghanistan's limited resources. But I feel his personal batting average could have been better for a captain. Still, he's a legend for leading them to the Champions Trophy. Wonder if they'll go with an experienced player or a young talent.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.