Top-order batter Hashmatullah Shahidi has resigned as the captain of Afghanistan’s ODI team, effective immediately. Shahidi, who took on the captaincy in January 2022, led the team in 55 ODIs until their recent 3-0 series loss to India. In a statement on Instagram, Shahidi expressed gratitude to the management, coaches, teammates, and supporters for their trust and backing during his tenure.
Under Shahidi’s leadership, Afghanistan experienced success in 50-over cricket, highlighted by a strong showing at the 2023 Men’s ODI World Cup in India. The team narrowly missed a semi-final spot after notable wins against England, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and the Netherlands. Following this, Afghanistan’s performance secured them a spot in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, where they defeated England but were hindered by a crucial match wash-out against Australia.
During Shahidi’s captaincy, Afghanistan achieved significant victories in bilateral series against Bangladesh and Zimbabwe, as well as triumphs over South Africa and Ireland. In total, the team won 27 out of 55 matches under his leadership. Shahidi’s leadership culminated in his final game as captain, where he scored a century, hitting 102 runs off 131 balls against India in Chennai. The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) is set to announce his successor before the upcoming tour of Ireland in August, which includes a five-match ODI series.
