Trott to step down as Afghanistan coach after T20 WC
What's the story
The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has announced that Jonathan Trott will step down as the head coach of the national team after the 2026 ICC Men's T20 World Cup. The decision comes as part of ACB's long-term strategic planning for the next phase of the team's growth. "ACB recognizes that coaching transitions are a natural part of the global cricketing ecosystem," said a board statement.
Coaching legacy
Trott's coaching journey with Afghanistan
Trott took over as head coach in July 2022, and has since then led Afghanistan to become a strong white-ball unit. His initial contract was for 18 months, but it was extended by another year in 2024 and then again through 2025. The upcoming T20 World Cup, likely to be held from February 7 to March 8 in India and Sri Lanka, will be Trott's final assignment with the team.
Strategic planning
ACB's vision for the future
The ACB emphasized that no international team stays with one coach forever, and this change marks a new chapter for Afghanistan cricket. "Just as teams evolve, so do their leadership and strategic needs," the board added in its statement. This transition is part of ACB's long-term vision to ensure continued growth and development of the national team on the global stage.
Twitter Post
Here is the post!
ACB and Jonathan Trott to Part Ways After ICC T20 World Cup 2026, Marking the End of a Proud Chapter
— Afghanistan Cricket Board (@ACBofficials) November 3, 2025
The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) announces that the tenure of Head Coach Jonathan Trott will officially conclude following the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, set to take place in… pic.twitter.com/csgKqXZ4cw
Achievements
Afghanistan's progress under Trott
Under Trott, the team has scaled new heights. They stunned Australia in the 2024 T20 World Cup to reach the semi-finals. Despite failing to reach the 2025 Asia Cup final, they routed Bangladesh 3-0 in the ODI series. Afghanistan, who lost the following one-off Test against Zimbabwe, whitewashed the team in the following hree-match T20I series.
Controversey
The miscommunication controversey
Last month, Trott had highlighted poor communication regarding squad selection and his lack of engagement with ACB officials. He made this statement ahead of the three-match T20I series against Zimbabwe. However, he later confirmed that any previous miscommunication with the ACB has been resolved. Trott said that he has had a productive discussion with the ACB and all stakeholders. He added that they have agreed on how to proceed.