Hashmatullah Shahidi stuns cricket world, picks Rashid Latif over MS Dhoni in all-time ODI XI

In a bold and surprising move, Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi sparked the debate by opting for Pakistan’s Rashid Latif over India’s legendary MS Dhoni as the wicketkeeper in his all-time ODI World XI. He unveiled his all-time ODI World XI on Shubhankar Mishra’s podcast.

Shahidi's decision to leave out one of the all-time wicketkeeping greats, Dhoni, for Latif, has not only stunned the host, Shubhankar but also left fans and cricket experts in disbelief. The former Indian captain retired from international cricket in 2020, but he is still active in the IPL.

Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi picks Rashid Latif over MS Dhoni in his all-time ODI XI

The Afghanistan cricket team skipper’s selection raised eyebrows during his recent appearance on Shubhankar Mishra’s podcast on YouTube, where he was asked about his dream ODI team.

While the host expected MS Dhoni, widely regarded as one of the best wicketkeepers in white-ball cricket, to make the cut as the wicketkeeper-batter, Shahidi went with Latif.

When asked to pick a wicketkeeper-batter of his all-time ODI World XI, Shahidi clearly named Rashid Latif, a former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter who was also known for his sharp glovework over Dhoni despite Indian legend was considered one of the best finishers the game has ever seen.

Notably, MS Dhoni is celebrated for his impeccable wicketkeeping skills, unparalleled finishing ability, and calm demeanor under pressure. Yet Shahidi went with Latif over Dhoni, maybe because of his contributions to Pakistan’s success during his time.

Dhoni's ODI stats speak volumes of his legacy in the format

Latif, known for his quick reflexes and astute cricketing mind, was a standout wicketkeeper for Pakistan in the late 1990s and early 2000s. However, Latif represented Pakistan in166 ODIs and scored 1709 runs with only three fifties to his name.

And these stats are far behind MS Dhoni’s iconic figures, as the Afghan star picked “batter” as his “wicketkeeper” of his all-time ODI World XI. So, the choice was beyond the imagination.

On the other hand, MS Dhoni has a great record in ODI cricket, representing India in 350 ODIs and amassing 10773 runs with the highest score of unbeaten 183. He smashed 10 centuries and 72 fifties during his career while leading India to 2011 World Cup and 2013 Champion Trophy glory.

Watch how Hashmatullah Shahidi undermines MS Dhoni here:

Afghanistan captain Hsshmatullah Shahidi picks Pakistan's Rashid Latif over India's MS Dhoni in his all-time ODI XI 🇵🇰🇮🇳🔥

Do you agree with him? 🇦🇫♥️pic.twitter.com/AKi8JAI3z0

— Farid Khan (@_FaridKhan) September 28, 2024

Interestingly, Shahidi’s all-time ODI World XI featured a mix of modern and classic greats. Opening the innings, he selected Saeed Anwar and Rohit Sharma, both prolific run scorers known for their stylish batting.

The middle order included heavyweights like Virat Kohli, Kumar Sangakkara, Inzamam ul Haq, and Mahela Jayawardene—players who have been stalwarts for their respective nations.

For the bowling attack, Shahidi placed his faith in legends like Waqar Younis, known for his deadly reverse swing, and Jasprit Bumrah, India’s current pace sensation. Afghan superstar Rashid Khan also found his place in the side.

Andrew Flintoff, the former England all-rounder, completed his team.

Here’s Hashmatullah Shahidi’s all-time ODI World XI:

Saeed Anwar, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Kumar Sangakkara, Inzamam ul Haq, Mahela Jayawardene, Rashid Latif, Andrew Flintoff, Rashid Khan, Waqar Younis, and Jasprit Bumrah.