I am better off as a player: Rashid Khan denies Afghanistan captaincy

Afghanistan spinner Rashid Khan has declined the offer to take up captaincy of the national team in T20 format, stating that it might affect his performance.

“I am very much clear in my mind that I am better off as a player. I am good in the role of vice-captain and help the captain wherever I am needed. It’s better for me that I stay away from this position,” Rashid told ESPNcricinfo.

The right-arm leggie further added that his performance as a player is more importnat for the side.

“I want to do well for the team as a player and my performance is a bit more crucial for the team rather than me thinking about different things being a captain.”

The 22 year old also pointed out that the World T20 is round the corner and it would take time for him to get into the groove if he takes up the role.

“Also, it takes time, and right now the most important thing is the World Cup which is quite near and I feel it is too much for me to have,” he said.

“If you have a year or two, you manage yourself and understand things only then it’s easier to deal with the role,” Rashid added.

Afghanistan recently sacked their skipper Asghar Afghan across all formats following an investigation conducted by ACB's Investigative committee.

The side suffered a defeat against Zimbabwe in the first Test of the two-match series but managed to win the second encounter to level it.

Hashmatullah Shahidi was handed over the captain’s band for the ODIs and Tests while Rahmat Shah was appointed as his deputy.

Rashid though has led the side for a short period of time after the Asian team had a dismal run in the 2019 World Cup under Gulbadin Naib’s captaincy, but was later removed after a disappointing outing against the West Indies, later that year.

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