I am afraid captaincy might affect my performance: Rashid Khan on declining T20I captaincy

Afghanistan leg-spinner Rashid Khan said that he declined the chance to lead the team in T20 Internationals (T20I) as he feels he is better off as a player, considering it could affect his performance with the ball. The Afghanistan Cricket Board is yet to announce a captain for their T20I side.

Afghanistan have been changing captains frequently and earlier this week named Hashmatullah Shahidi as their Test and ODI skipper.

"I am very much clear in my mind that I am better off as a player. I am good in the role as 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.

"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. 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 added.

Rashid has led Afghanistan in two Tests, seven ODIs and as many T20Is so far. "I am afraid it might affect my performance for the team which is a key so I am very happy as a player and whatever the decision board and selection committee make I am fully behind it and will appreciate it," the 22-year-old said.

"If you have a year or two, you manage yourself and understand things only then it's easier to deal with the role."

"I was the captain once and they [board] know my mindset and which is why they kept the spot empty looking for someone else while I stay as a vice-captain," Rashid, who has played five Tests, 74 ODIs and 51 T20Is added.