Furious Rashid Khan Criticises Sacking Of Asghar Afghan As Afghanistan Captain

Afghanistan’s ace spinner Rashid Khan has slammed the decision to remove Asghar Afghan as the captain of the team across formats just days before the upcoming World Cup in England and Wales. Afghanistan are gearing up to play in the World Cup for only the second time in their history but their plans are set to be changed in the last minute after the surprising decision from the selectors.

Afghan was the captain of the team since 2015 and did extremely well as the leader of the side. Under his reign, Afghanistan became one of the most exciting teams in the world and also earned their Test status. Under his stint, Afghanistan managed 31 wins in ODIs including wins over the likes of Pakistan, Windies and Sri Lanka. In T20Is, they registered in 37 of the 46 games they played under Afghan including series wins over Bangladesh and Windies. He also led his country to their maiden Test win against Ireland this year.

But for reason known only to them, the Afghanistan selectors decided to sack the inspirational captain just before the World Cup.  Gulbadin Naib, Rashid Khan and Rahmat Shah will now take over the reins for ODIs, T20Is and Test cricket respectively. Afghanistan also named Rashid, Shafiqullah Shafiq and Hashmatullah Shahidi as vice captains for ODIs, T20Is and Test cricket respectively.

However, the decision has not gone down well with Rashid as he took to Twitter to express his displeasure.

“With all the respect to the Selection Committee, I strongly disagree with the decision as it is irresponsible & bias. As we have @cricketworldcup in front of us, Captain #MAsgharAfghan should remain as our team Captain. His captaincy is highly instrumental for team success,” wrote Rashid Khan before adding:

“With just months to go for such a mega event like World Cup, changing the captain will cause uncertainty and also team morale will be affected. @ashrafghani @afgexecutive @hmohib”

With all the respect to the Selection Committee, I strongly disagree with the decision as it is irresponsible & bias. As we have @cricketworldcup in front of us, Captain #MAsgharAfghan should remain as our team Captain. His captaincy is highly instrumental for team success .(1/2)

— Rashid Khan (@rashidkhan_19) April 5, 2019

Afghanistan, meanwhile, will open their World Cup campaign against defending champions Australia on June 1.