Rahmat Shah replaces Hashmatullah Shahidi as Afghanistan skipper

Rahmat Shah has been appointed as Afghanistan's new captain for both the Test and One-Day International (ODI) teams after Hashmatullah Shahidi stepped down from the role, bringing an end to a leadership tenure that spanned more than four and a half years.

The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) confirmed the appointment on Wednesday, a day after Shahidi announced his decision to resign as ODI captain. Rahmat, an experienced middle-order batter who has served as Shahidi's deputy since 2021, will begin his captaincy with Afghanistan's five-match ODI series against Ireland next month.

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In a statement, the ACB thanked Shahidi for his contribution to Afghanistan cricket.

"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 board said.

The board added that Rahmat's experience and understanding of the team made him the ideal choice to take over.

"With extensive experience in international cricket, leadership, and the team's overall structure, Rahmat Shah is well positioned to take on this important responsibility."

Shahidi, 31, had captained Afghanistan since the start of 2022 and led the side during the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup in 2023 and the ICC Champions Trophy in 2025. Under his leadership, Afghanistan enjoyed one of the most successful periods in their ODI history.

At the 2023 World Cup in India, Afghanistan recorded memorable victories over former champions England as well as Pakistan, Sri Lanka and the Netherlands, finishing sixth in the standings and narrowly missing out on a place in the knockout stage.

Announcing his resignation on social media, Shahidi described captaining Afghanistan as one of the greatest honours of his career.

Although he has stepped down as captain, Shahidi confirmed he will remain available for selection as a player in Afghanistan's ODI squad. The leadership baton now passes to Rahmat Shah, who will look to build on Afghanistan's recent progress as they prepare for their upcoming assignments, beginning with the Ireland series next month.