Nabi steps down as Afghanistan captain

Afghanistan T20I captain stepped down from the role on Friday citing unsatisfactory preparation and disagreements with the team management following their disappointing T20 World Cup 2022 campaign, where the Afghans failed to register any wins.

The all-rounder revealed his decision following Afghanistan’s loss against Australia in their final group-stage match of the Super 12 at the Adelaide Oval.

The narrow defeat against Australia meant that Afghanistan finished the marquee event as the only team who failed to win a match, with three losses and two no-results.

“Our T20 World Cup journey came to an end, with a result that not us nor our supporters were expecting,” Nabi wrote in a statement posted on his Twitter account. “We are as frustrated as you are with the outcome of matches.

“From the last one year, our team preparation was not to a level that a captain would want it or needed for a big tournament. Moreover, in some of the last tours the team management, selection committee and I were not on the same page which had implications on the team balance.

“Therefore, with due respect, effectively immediately I announce to STEP DOWN as a CAPTAIN & will continue to play for my country when the management & team need me.

“I thank every single one of you from the bottom of my heart who came to the grounds despite matches being affected by the rain and those who supporters us worldwide, your love truly means a lot to us. Long live Afghanistan,” he added.

The 37-year-old was made captain right before the 2021 T20 world Cup following the sudden resignation of Rashid Khan. The all-rounder led his side in 23 matches, leading Afghanistan to victory in 10 matches and coming out on the losing side on 13 occasions.

Nabi, however, has said that he would continue to play for his country.