Afghanistan are reviewing their leadership structure following a disappointing group-stage exit at the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, triggering a period of introspection within the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB).

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Entering the tournament with high expectations and what many considered a well-balanced squad, Afghanistan failed to qualify for the Super Eight stage after costly defeats to New Zealand and South Africa. Despite flashes of brilliance under captain Rashid Khan, the team struggled to deliver consistently in key moments.

Rashid, widely regarded as one of the world’s premier T20 bowlers, is now under scrutiny as the board assesses tactical decisions and team combinations as part of its white-ball roadmap.

ACB Chief Executive Naseeb Khan confirmed that discussions are underway regarding possible structural and leadership adjustments. While no decision has yet been taken on the captaincy, the board has already initiated changes within the support staff to strengthen the team’s long-term prospects.

“No final decision has been made regarding the captains yet, so I cannot say at this stage whether they will be changed or retained,” Naseeb said.

As part of the rebuilding process, Afghanistan have appointed experienced coach Richard Pybus to guide the team forward. Pybus, who previously coached Pakistan to the 1999 World Cup final, replaces Jonathan Trott, whose tenure concluded after the T20 World Cup.

Upcoming fixtures

Afghanistan will look to regroup quickly, beginning with a three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka from March 13 in Sharjah, followed by a three-match ODI series in Dubai starting March 20.

In June, the team is scheduled to tour India for a multi-format series featuring a one-off Test and three ODIs. The Test, set to be played in New Chandigarh from June 6, will mark only the second red-ball meeting between the two sides since their inaugural Test in 2018 at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.

The ODI series will begin on June 14 in Dharamshala, with the remaining matches to be held in Lucknow (June 17) and Chennai (June 20).

With changes underway and a demanding international calendar ahead, Afghanistan face a crucial phase in redefining their direction after their World Cup setback.