The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has confirmed that head coach Jonathan Trott will step down following the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in 2026, marking a planned transition as part of its long-term vision for the national team’s growth.
Trott, a former England international, took charge of the Afghan side in July 2022. Under his leadership, Afghanistan has enjoyed a period of significant progress: the team notched memorable wins in major ICC events, including victories over England, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka in the 2023 ODI World Cup. In the 2024 T20 World Cup, the side reached the semi-finals for the first time, enhancing Afghanistan’s reputation on the global stage.
In announcing Trott’s exit, the ACB described the move as “part of a broader plan to take Afghanistan cricket to its next level.” The board emphasized that leadership transitions are a natural part of long-term team building, and that change does not necessarily reflect performance issues, but rather strategic evolution.
Trott himself expressed pride in his time with Afghanistan, calling it a “privilege” to coach a team so driven and resilient. “I am proud of what we have accomplished together, and I will always remain a supporter of Afghan cricket,” he said.
Alongside Trott’s planned departure, the ACB also revealed that batting coach Andrew Puttick will leave when his contract expires at the end of December 2025. This suggests a broader restructuring of the support staff, with the board expected to begin looking for a new head coach after the 2026 T20 World Cup.
Cricket analysts see this as a calculated and mature decision by the ACB. Rather than making a hasty change, the board is opting for a smooth, well-timed handover, allowing Trott to complete his term with the team’s marquee tournament and giving enough runway for his successor to be identified and onboarded effectively.
Trott’s legacy will be defined by more than just results. During his tenure, he instilled professionalism, discipline, and a belief that Afghanistan could compete with the world’s best — furthering the team’s transformation from underdogs to genuine contenders.
As Afghanistan prepare for the upcoming World Cup, the board’s leadership change sets the stage for the next chapter. The priority now shifts to finding a coach who can build on Trott’s foundation, nurture emerging talent, and continue steering Afghan cricket toward greater long-term stability and success.
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