Hashmatullah Shahidi Resigns as Afghanistan ODI Captain, Remains Player

Hashmatullah Shahidi Steps Down as ODI Captain

Experienced batsman Hashmatullah Shahidi has announced his resignation as the captain of Afghanistan's ODI team but will continue to participate as a player in the 50-over format.

At 31 years old, Shahidi assumed the ODI captaincy at the beginning of 2022 and led the team through the 2023 ODI World Cup and the upcoming 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. He also holds the captaincy for Afghanistan's Test team.

One of his notable performances as captain occurred during the 2023 World Cup against India, where he scored 80 runs off 88 balls, helping Afghanistan set a target of 272 runs. Unfortunately, India successfully chased down the score.

In a social media announcement, Shahidi stated, "Today I announce with full respect and consent that I am resigning as captain of my team at my personal decision."

Under his leadership, Afghanistan had a remarkable ODI campaign, achieving victories against teams like England, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and the Netherlands during the 2023 World Cup held in India.

These achievements brought them close to their first semifinal appearance, and he also led the team in the Champions Trophy.

"It was a great honour for me to perform this responsibility as a Captain. I am proud to have served alongside my team with honesty, unity, and commitment," he expressed.

To date, Shahidi has accumulated over 2,600 runs in 96 ODIs, including one century.

"By the grace of Allah, with the efforts of the officials, coaches, and players, we have achieved many victories, won important matches, defeated big teams, and elevated the team's reputation," he remarked. Shahidi confirmed his availability for ODI selection as Afghanistan prepares to appoint a new captain ahead of their five-match ODI series against Ireland next month.

"All these achievements are not just mine, but also the result of the teamwork, sacrifices, and coordination of the entire team," he added.

"I thank all the players of my team from the bottom of my heart who always supported me and stood shoulder to shoulder with me in every victory and every challenge," he concluded.

"I also thank the officials and the administration of the team who believed in me and always supported me. Your trust and cooperation will always be an honour for me," he stated.