Afghanistan have appointed Rahmat Shah as captain of their Test and ODI teams following the resignation of Hashmatullah Shahidi, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) announced on Wednesday.
Shahidi stepped down on Tuesday after leading Afghanistan for five years, a period that included the team’s impressive sixth-place finish at the 2023 ODI World Cup. Afghanistan also recorded memorable victories over former champions England, Pakistan and Sri Lanka during that tournament.
“The Afghanistan Cricket Board appreciates Hashmatullah Shahidi’s valuable service, dedication and leadership during his tenure as captain and wishes him continued success in his future endeavours,” the ACB said in a statement.
Rahmat, who has served as Shahidi’s vice-captain since 2021, now takes over the leadership role across both formats.
“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 board added.
The experienced middle-order batter will begin his tenure as captain during Afghanistan’s five-match ODI series against Ireland next month.
The appointment marks the start of a new leadership chapter as Afghanistan continue their preparations for a busy international schedule.
