The opening batter Ibrahim Zadran has been named as Afghanistan’s new T20I captain after their exit in the 2026 T20 World Cup.

Ibrahim Zadran’s first assignment is in the three-match T20I series in Afghanistan vs Sri Lanka 2026, starting on March 13. This will be followed by a three-match ODI series against Sri Lanka in Dubai later this month.

“The ACB is closely monitoring the ongoing situation in the region and is engaging in discussions with all stakeholders about whether the series can proceed as originally planned, both in terms of dates and venue,” said a statement from the board.

“Although a final decision will be made in a couple of days, the ACB’s initial approach, in coordination with the ECB (Emirates Cricket Board) and venue authorities, is to proceed with the originally scheduled dates. Should circumstances necessitate a change, the ACB will consider exploring alternative options for both the host country and the event schedule.”

Previously, Ibrahim Zadran has captained Afghanistan several times, has been the Afghanistan’s fourth highest run-getter in the format, with 1865 runs in 65 innings at an average of 33.30 and strike rate of 114.83.

“Rashid Khan’s tenure as the 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,” the ACB said.

“In alignment with the ACB’s long-term strategic vision and following recent changes in our team management, including the appointment of a new head coach, we have made the thoughtful decision to transition the leadership within the T20I set-up.”

Ibrahim Zadran will work with Richard Rybus, who took over from Jonathan Trott as their head coach.

However, Hashmatullah Shahidi will continue to captain the ODI team with Rahmah Shah his deputy Zia Ur Rahman Sharifi, who replaced the injured Naveen-ul-Haq in Afghanistan’s T20 World Cup squad, has earned his maiden ODI call-up.

Afghanistan T20I Squad: Ibrahim Zadran (c), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Noor Rahman (wk), Sediqullah Atal, Darwish Rasooli, Shahidullah Kamal, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Sharafuddin Ashraf, Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Zia Ur Rahman Sharifi, Fareed Ahmad Malik and Abdullah Ahmadzai

Reserves: Nangyal Kharoti, Bilal Sami and Ijaz Ahmadzai