The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has announced a major leadership change for the national team, appointing middle-order batter Rahmat Shah as the new captain of the Test and One-Day International (ODI) teams. Wicketkeeper-batter Rahmanullah Gurbaz has been named vice-captain.
According to an official statement from the ACB, Rahmat Shah has taken over the role after Hashmatullah Shahidi stepped down as captain.
Shahidi led Afghanistan in 55 ODI matches, during which the team achieved several notable successes. The board acknowledged his contribution and thanked him for his leadership.
The ACB said Rahmat Shah has served as Shahidi’s vice-captain since 2021, giving him valuable experience in team leadership and management.
Rahmat Shah’s first assignment as captain will be the upcoming series against Ireland, where he will officially lead Afghanistan’s Test and ODI sides for the first time.
Rahmat Shah made his international debut in 2013 and is regarded as one of Afghanistan’s most experienced cricketers. He has represented the country in 128 ODIs and 12 Test matches, playing a key role in many of the team’s successes with his dependable batting performances.
The Afghanistan Cricket Board expressed confidence that Rahmat Shah’s leadership, experience, and cricketing knowledge will help guide the team to greater success and further strengthen Afghanistan’s position in international cricket.
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