Jonathan Trott’s tenure with Afghanistan cricket comes to an end as the ACB announces coaching changes ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup.
Jonathan Trott, the current head coach of Afghanistan’s national cricket team, has announced that he will step down from his position following the 2026 T20 World Cup. The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) confirmed this change on November 3, 2025, marking the end of a successful period for Trott’s leadership.
Trott took over as head coach in July 2022 and during his tenure, Afghanistan cricket saw notable progress, including victories over major teams like England, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka at the 2023 ODI World Cup. Under his guidance, Afghanistan also made a significant mark in the T20 format, reaching the semi-finals of the 2024 T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies.
Afghanistan Cricket Board’s Statement on Coaching Transition
The ACB issued a statement on the coaching transition, highlighting that changes in leadership are part of the natural cycle in global cricket. “ACB recognises that coaching transitions are a natural part of the global cricketing ecosystem. Just as teams evolve, so do their leadership and strategic needs,” the statement read.
The board also emphasized that no international team remains under the same coach forever, and Trott’s departure will mark a new chapter for Afghanistan as they continue to build for the future. The ACB’s long-term strategic planning includes developing the national team toward sustained excellence, with the 2026 T20 World Cup as a key milestone.
Trott Reflects on His Time with Afghanistan Cricket
Trott expressed pride in his time with Afghanistan’s national team, noting that it had been a privilege to work with players who showed resilience and a strong desire to succeed. “It has been a privilege to work with the Afghanistan National Team and to witness their passion, resilience, and hunger to achieve greatness,” Trott said in his farewell message. He added, “I am proud of what we have accomplished together, and I will always remain a supporter of Afghan cricket.”
Trott’s record speaks for itself, with Afghanistan winning 20 of 43 ODIs and 29 of 61 T20Is during his tenure. His departure will undoubtedly mark a new phase for the team, but his impact on Afghanistan cricket will be felt for years to come.
Trott’s Future in Coaching: Gulf Giants and Beyond
While Trott will be stepping down from his role with Afghanistan, he is not leaving the world of coaching. He is set to take charge of the Gulf Giants in the upcoming ILT20 season, after having previously coached the Pretoria Capitals in the SA20 league. Notably, Trott was replaced by Sourav Ganguly as the head coach of Pretoria Capitals, but he remains active in coaching circles and will bring his experience to the Gulf Giants’ camp in the upcoming T20 league.
As Afghanistan cricket looks ahead to its future, Trott’s contributions will be remembered, and his departure opens the door for new leadership to guide the team through its next phase of growth. The ACB’s decision is part of a broader strategy to ensure continued development and success on the global stage.
