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Jonathan Trott To Step Down As Afghanistan Head Coach After 2026 T20 World Cup
Follow UsDuring his stint, Afghanistan produced some of their most memorable performances
Afghanistan head coach Jonathan Trott will step down from his role after the 2026 T20 World Cup, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) confirmed on November 3 (Monday). The board also announced that batting coach Andrew Puttick will part ways with the team once his contract expires on December 31.
“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 board said in a statement.
“No international side remains under a single coach forever, and this change marks a new chapter for Afghanistan as the board continues building toward long-term excellence. This decision comes as part of ACB's long-term strategic planning for the next phase of the national team's growth.”
Trott, who took charge in July 2022, guided Afghanistan through a significant period of progress. Under his tenure, the team won 20 of 43 ODIs and 29 of 61 T20Is.
During his stint, Afghanistan produced some of their most memorable performances - defeating England, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka at the 2023 ODI World Cup, and later reaching the semi-finals of the 2024 T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies.
“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.
“I am proud of what we have accomplished together, and I will always remain a supporter of Afghan cricket. I wish the team and the Afghan people continued success in the years ahead.”
The 2026 T20 World Cup will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka in February-March.
Meanwhile, Trott is set to coach the Gulf Giants in the upcoming ILT20 season, having previously served as Pretoria Capitals’ head coach in the SA20 before being replaced by Sourav Ganguly.