Jonathan Trott to step down as Afghanistan Head Coach after 2026 T20 World Cup

Jonathan Trott will step down as Afghanistan’s head coach following the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) confirmed. The move marks the end of a transformative era for Afghanistan, during which Trott guided them to historic milestones in both ODIs and T20Is.

Under Trott, Afghanistan won 20 of 43 ODIs and 29 of 61 T20Is, including memorable wins over England, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka at the 2023 ODI World Cup and a semi-final berth at the 2024 T20 World Cup. The ACB described the decision as part of its long-term strategic planning to shape the next phase of the national team’s growth.

Trott expressed pride in the team’s development, saying, “It has been a privilege to work with the Afghanistan National Team and to witness their passion and resilience. I will always remain a supporter of Afghan cricket.”

Batting coach Andrew Puttick will also depart when his contract ends in December. The ACB will begin the process of finding a new head coach after the 2026 tournament. Trott is set to continue coaching in franchise cricket, taking charge of the Gulf Giants in the upcoming ILT20 season.