NEW DELHI: Ibrahim Zadran has been named the new T20I captain of the Afghanistan national cricket team for the upcoming white-ball series against the Sri Lanka national cricket team.
The decision was announced by the Afghanistan Cricket Board after the team’s disappointing performance in the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, where Afghanistan were eliminated in the league stage. Zadran replaces star Rashid Khan, who previously led the team in the format.
Zadran had served as vice-captain and now takes on the leadership role as part of wider changes within the team following the tournament.
Explaining the decision, chief selector Ahmad Shah Sulimankhil said: “Rashid Khan’s tenure as T20I captain brought immense success to the team, particularly highlighted by the team’s remarkable journey in the 2024 edition of the T20 World Cup, where we reached the semi-finals.”
He added that the move is part of a long-term plan for the team’s future.
“In alignment with the ACB’s long-term strategic vision and following recent changes to our team management, including the appointment of a new head coach, we have made the careful decision to transition leadership within the T20I set-up,” he continued.
“Ibrahim Zadran, who has served as Rashid Khan’s deputy, will take on the role of Afghanistan’s regular captain in this format. We extend our sincere thanks to Rashid Khan for his valuable contributions and wish Ibrahim Zadran every success in this important new role.”
The squad has also undergone several changes, with players like Fazal Haq Farooqi, Gulbadin Naib and Mohammad Ishaq excluded.
Meanwhile, new names like Noor Rahman, Sharafuddin Ashraf and Fareed Ahmad have been included in the T20I squad.
“In addition, our long-term objective is to adequately prepare the team for the next two World Cups,” he highlighted.
“We are hopeful that, under this new leadership, the National Team will not only thrive but also show outstanding performances and build a strong and competitive bench for the crucial challenges ahead.”
Meanwhile, the ACB said it is monitoring the regional situation due to the conflict between Israel and Iran.
The board added: “Although a final decision will be made in a couple of days, the initial approach of the ACB, in coordination with the ECB and the venue authorities, is to proceed with the originally scheduled dates. If circumstances require a change, the ACB will consider exploring alternative options for both the host country and the event schedule.”