Rahmat appointed as Afghanistan's new Test and ODI skipper, Gurbaz appointed vice-captain
Kabul, July 22
Seasoned batter Rahmat Shah has been appointed as Afghanistan's new Test and ODI captain. Dynamic wicketkeeper-batter Rahmanullah Gurbaz has been appointed as Rahmat's vice-captain across both formats, said the Afghanistan Cricket Board.
Shah, 33, is replacing Hashmatullah Shahidi, who previously stepped down from the leadership role after leading the side in 55 ODIs since taking over in January 2022, with 27 of them ending in victories. He moves into the top job after serving as the team's vice-captain in both red-ball and 50-over cricket since May 2021.
"The ACB appreciates Hashmatullah Shahidi's valuable service, dedication, and leadership during his tenure as captain and wishes him continued success in his future endeavors. The Board also wishes Rahmat Shah Zurmati every success in his new role and looks forward to working with him towards achieving the team's objectives," the ACB said in its statement.
Under Shahidi's leadership, Afghanistan enjoyed a remarkable run in ODI cricket, winning 27 out of 55 matches. His tenure was highlighted by a stellar sixth-place finish at the 2023 World Cup in India, marked by memorable wins against 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's tenue also included a maiden bilateral series victory over South Africa. The new leadership duo of Rahmat and Gurbaz will officially take charge during Afghanistan's upcoming tour of Ireland in August, featuring a five-match ODI series.
"With extensive experience in international cricket, leadership, and the team's overall structure, Rahmat Shah is well positioned to take on this important responsibility. The ACB is confident that his experience, leadership, and understanding of the team will help Afghanistan achieve further significant success. The Afghanistan Cricket Board wishes both Rahmat Shah Zurmati and Rahmanullah Gurbaz every success in their new leadership roles," added the ACB.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Shahidi did a commendable job, especially the 2023 World Cup campaign where they beat England and Pakistan. That was incredible! But change is part of the game. Rahmat has the experience, let's see if he can build on that momentum. Gurbaz as VC is a smart move—young and explosive talent.
Interesting appointment. Rahmat is a solid player but I wonder if they should have gone for a younger captain for the long term. Gurbaz as VC makes sense though. Afghanistan cricket is on the rise, and this leadership duo could stabilize things.
As an Indian fan, I've always admired Afghanistan's never-say-die spirit. Shahidi's captaincy was good but maybe not great? The washout against Australia in the Champions Trophy was unlucky, but you have to win those crucial games. Hope Rahmat brings more consistency. Khelo aur jeeto! 🏏
Respectful criticism: Shahidi's win-loss record looks decent on paper, but Afghanistan's batting collapses in pressure situations were a concern. Rahmat will need to address that, especially in Tests. The Ireland tour will be a good start for the new leadership.
This is a good move by ACB. Rahmat has been a pillar of the batting lineup and his experience will be invaluable. Also, appointing Gurbaz as VC is brilliant—he's a match-winner on his day. Hope they groom him for future captaincy. India-Afghanistan cricket friendship is strong! 🇮🇳🤝🇦🇫
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