Hashmatullah Shahidi steps down as Afghanistan ODI captain after four-and-a-half years

Hashmatullah Shahidi (ANI Photo) Hashmatullah Shahidi has stepped down as Afghanistan’s ODI captain with immediate effect, ending a leadership role that began in January 2022. His decision came after Afghanistan lost the ODI series 3-0 to India last month. Shahidi captained the team in 55 matches, winning 27, and oversaw one of the most successful periods in Afghanistan’s fifty-year history.Shahidi confirmed his resignation on Instagram and thanked everyone who supported him during his time as captain. “After careful consideration, I have decided to step down as captain of our team. It has been a great honor to lead this team. I sincerely thank the management, coaches, my teammates and our supporters for their trust and support throughout this journey,” he wrote.He also made it clear that he would continue to represent Afghanistan as a player, adding: “Although I am stepping down as captain, I remain fully committed to serving the team as a player and wish the new captain and the team every success.”During Shahidi’s captaincy, Afghanistan reached new heights in ODI cricket. The team narrowly missed out on a place in the semi-finals of the 2023 ODI World Cup after memorable wins over England, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and the Netherlands. The campaign also earned Afghanistan a place in the 2025 Champions Trophy, where they beat England before a loss against Australia ended their semi-final hopes.Shahidi also led Afghanistan to ODI series wins over Bangladesh, Zimbabwe, South Africa and Ireland. His only ODI century came in his last match as captain when he scored 102 against India in Chennai. The Afghanistan Cricket Board is expected to announce a new ODI captain ahead of the team’s five-match ODI series in Ireland next month.