Afghanistan star leg-spinner Rashid Khan was appointed T20I captain by Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) on Tuesday (July 6). Najibullah Zadran was named as his deputy.

“All-rounder Rashid Khan has been appointed the T20I captain of Team Afghanistan. Meanwhile Najibullah Zadran has been appointed the National Team’s Vice-captain for the format,” ACB said in a statement.

“Rashid, one of the well-known global faces of the game , was selected by senior ACB leadership led by ACB Chairman Farhan Yousefzai, for the role considering his experience, brilliant performance as well as leadership skills with the National team over the years.” the statement added.

The spinner tweeted after accepting the responsibility, as he wrote, "I’m a great believer that a captain is as good as his team. It is Afghanistan that gave me the name RASHID KHAN & it is my duty now to serve my country & my team. Thank you @ACBofficials for the trust & believing in me. It is a dream journey & my fans support will be the key."

Rashid was previously named Afghanistan captain across all formats but was later replaced by veteran batsman Asghar Afghan in 2019. Recently, Rashid had declined T20I captaincy, saying he provides more value to the team as a player than as a leader.

ALSO READ: Rashid Khan declines Afghanistan captaincy, says "I'm better off as a player"

The hugely popular cricketer worldwide has taken 95 wickets in 51 T20Is at a stunning average of 12.63 and economy rate of 6.21. The 22-year-old has 370 wickets to his name in 265 T20 matches, while playing in various cricket leagues.

Afghanistan has been clubbed with England, India and South Africa in group B for the T20 World Cup 2021 which will be played in UAE and Oman from October 17 to November 14. The remaining two teams will be chosen from the Qualifiers.

(With PTI inputs)