Hashmatullah Shahidi Steps Down as Afghanistan ODI Captain

Hashmatullah Shahidi has resigned as Afghanistan’s ODI captain, ending a spell that began in January 2022. His final match in charge was against India in June 2026.

The record

Shahidi led Afghanistan in 55 ODIs and won 27 of them. In that time the team played in the 2023 Asia Cup, the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup and the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy.

The 2023 World Cup was the high point. Afghanistan beat England, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and the Netherlands but narrowly missed the semi-finals, finishing sixth. At the 2025 Champions Trophy in Dubai they again beat England, only for a rain-affected match against Australia to end their chances of reaching the knockouts.

His message

In a post on Instagram, Shahidi said he had made the decision after careful personal thought and thanked the management, coaches, team-mates and supporters for their trust. He described leading the side as a great honour and wished the next captain and the team well. He gave no specific reason for stepping down.

What happens next

Shahidi confirmed he remains fully committed to Afghanistan as an ODI player. The team’s next 50-over assignment is a five-match series against Ireland from August 5 to 14, 2026. The Afghanistan Cricket Board is expected to name a new ODI captain before it starts, which should open a new chapter for the side.