Afghanistan has stepped into an exciting new chapter in international cricket with the appointment of Rahmat Shah as the new captain for both ODI and Test formats, following Hashmatullah Shahidi’s resignation. Rahmat, a seasoned top-order batter, takes over the reins after Shahidi led the team for an impressive four and a half years. With his wealth of experience and solid presence in the batting lineup, Rahmat is set to guide the team as they aim to build on their recent achievements.
On Wednesday, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) officially announced Rahmat Shah Zurmati as the national team’s new captain for ODIs and Tests, following Shahidi’s departure. Alongside him, wicketkeeper-batter Rahmanullah Gurbaz has been appointed as vice-captain for both formats. This new leadership duo will kick off their journey during Afghanistan’s upcoming ODI series against Ireland, signaling the dawn of a fresh era for the national team.
Hasmatullah Shahidiβs Historic Afghanistan Captaincy Stint
Hashmatullah Shahidi took the reins as captain on May 31, 2021, and kicked off his journey with a memorable ODI series victory against the Netherlands in January 2022. During his time at the helm, Afghanistan triumphed in 27 out of 55 ODIs, marking one of the most successful chapters in the team’s history. His crowning achievement came during the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, where Afghanistan pulled off stunning wins against England, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and the Netherlands, ultimately finishing sixthβan all-time best for the nation in World Cup history. This impressive run also secured their spot in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, where they made a splash by defeating England in their debut and wrapping up the tournament in fifth place. Under Shahidi’s guidance, the team even reached its highest-ever ranking, landing in seventh place in the ICC Men’s ODI Team Rankings.
Now, Rahmat Shah is stepping up to lead the team after serving as Afghanistan’s vice-captain in both Tests and ODIs since 2021. As one of the most seasoned batters in the country, he has played a crucial role in the middle order across formats and is now ready to take on the leadership mantle as the team gears up for a packed schedule. The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) believes that Rahmat’s experience and deep understanding of the squad make him the perfect fit for this role.
Joining him in this new chapter, Rahmanullah Gurbaz has been elevated to vice-captain in both formats. The dynamic wicketkeeper-batter will lend his support to Rahmat as Afghanistan embarks on this fresh leadership journey. Their first challenge will be a five-match ODI series against Ireland from August 5 to 15. Afghanistan will maintain separate captains for different formats, with Ibrahim Zadran continuing as the T20I captain after taking over from Rashid Khan earlier this year.
