Afghan played his final game for his country on Sunday in Afghanistan’s 62-run win over Namibia.

The veteran Afghanistani cricketer has played across all three formats for his country, captaining the side in their first-ever Test match against India in 2019.

Afghan also has 114 ODI caps to his name and captained Afghanistan at the 2016 T20 World Cup.

And speaking after Sunday's match, the 33-year-old explained why he has opted to bring the curtain down on his glittering now.

“Most of the people are asking why now and not the end of the tournament, but some things we cannot explain like that,” Afghan said via a translator. “In the last match (against Pakistan) we were hurt too much, that’s why I’ve decided the time is right to leave the stage.

“I want to give a chance to the youngsters, this is a good opportunity for the youngsters to come forward.”

Afghan played 75 T20 international matches for his country, scoring 1382 runs and four 50s.

His aggressive style of play helped spearhead the team’s development into a major force in the format, and his captaincy cemented his legacy - Afghan holds the record for most wins as a captain in T20 international cricket with 42.

“There are plenty of memories, but it is very difficult when you decide for retirement,” a tearful Afghan said. “I know there are plenty listening to me, it’s very difficult to explain but I have to retire.”

Afghan was given a guard of honour by opponents Namibia when he came out to bat, arriving at number four with his side 68/2.

And, after anchoring the middle of the innings, he helped up the scoring rate late on, before being caught at backward point for 31 off 23 balls.

The departing veteran was then applauded off the field by fans and players alike, before being given a guard of honour from his teammates as he crossed the boundary rope for the final time.

“Asghar has been a great ambassador of the game and played a huge part in Afghanistan’s rise up the ranks in world cricket," ICC Acting Chief Executive Geoff Allardice said.

“He has played a pivotal role as batter and led his team astutely during his time as captain.

“On behalf of the ICC, I wish him all the best for the future and hope that he continues to be associated with the game in the years to come."

Afghanistan’s win over Namibia took them up to second in Group 2, with matches against qualification rivals India and New Zealand still to come.