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Rahmat Shah Named Afghanistan's New Test and ODI Captain; Gurbaz to Serve as Vice-Captain
A new era has begun in Afghanistan cricket. The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has appointed experienced middle-order batter Rahmat Shah as the new captain for the Test and ODI formats. This decision comes just one day after former captain Hashmatullah Shahidi resigned from the role.
Additionally, aggressive wicketkeeper-batter Rahmanullah Gurbaz has been appointed as the team's new vice-captain for both formats.
Hashmatullah Shahidi's Successful Tenure and Resignation
Under Hashmatullah Shahidi's captaincy, Afghanistan rapidly established its identity in world cricket. Led by him, the team delivered a historic performance at the 2023 ODI World Cup, defeating strong sides such as England, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and the Netherlands. On the back of this performance, Afghanistan qualified for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy for the first time.
However, Shahidi decided to step down with an eye on the next ODI World Cup, scheduled for October-November 2027.
ACB Statement:
The Afghanistan Cricket Board appreciates Hashmatullah Shahidi's valuable contributions, dedication, and leadership. "We wish Rahmat Shah Zurmati the best in his new role and look forward to working with him."
Rahmat Shah was a natural contender for the captaincy
Rahmat Shah's appointment as captain is seen as a natural progression, given that he had been serving as vice-captain alongside Shahidi since May 2021. Furthermore, Rahmat Shah is Afghanistan's highest run-scorer in both Test and ODI formats.
The series against Ireland will be the first test
The duo of Rahmat Shah and new vice-captain Rahmanullah Gurbaz will begin their new roles with the upcoming five-match ODI series against Ireland.
