Afghanistan cricket has been dealt a significant blow after Hashmatullah Shahidi stepped down as the team’s ODI captain with immediate effect.
His resignation comes at a crucial stage, with Afghanistan still battling to secure direct qualification for the 2027 ICC ODI World Cup. The sudden leadership change now adds another challenge for the team as it prepares for an important phase in the qualification cycle.
Shahidi’s departure marks the end of a successful stint in charge of the Afghan side. He led the team in 55 One-Day Internationals, guiding Afghanistan to 27 victories. Under his leadership, Afghanistan earned memorable wins against strong teams such as England, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and the Netherlands during the 2023 ODI World Cup, where the team finished an impressive sixth in the standings.
His captaincy also saw Afghanistan continue its rise in international cricket beyond the World Cup. The team registered bilateral ODI series victories against Bangladesh, Zimbabwe, South Africa, and Ireland, while also defeating England again during the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, further establishing Afghanistan as a competitive force in world cricket.
Apart from his leadership, Shahidi made valuable contributions with the bat. His performances remained consistent throughout his captaincy, and he often anchored the innings in pressure situations. Across 96 ODIs, he has scored one international century, with his highest score of 101 coming during the ODI series against India earlier this year.
With Shahidi stepping aside, Afghanistan now faces the important task of appointing a new ODI captain. The decision will be crucial as the team looks to maintain momentum and strengthen its campaign for a place in the 2027 World Cup.
Afghanistan’s next assignment is a five-match ODI series against Ireland next month, and all eyes will be on the Afghanistan Cricket Board to see who is entrusted with leading the side into a new chapter. The incoming captain will have the responsibility of guiding a talented squad through a demanding qualification journey while ensuring the team’s recent progress continues on the international stage.