New Delhi, Nov 3 (IANS) The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) on Monday announced that head coach Jonathan Trott’s tenure will officially end after the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, scheduled for February in India and Sri Lanka.

ACB said that this move is part of ACB’s long-term strategic plan for the next stage of the national team’s development.

Since taking charge of the Afghanistan National Team in 2022, Trott has collaborated closely with the players over the past few years, playing a key role in the team’s growth and increasing international competitiveness.

“It has been a privilege to work with the Afghanistan National Team and to witness their passion, resilience, and hunger to achieve greatness. 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,” Trott said.

Under Trott’s guidance, Afghanistan have experienced some of their most notable moments in recent cricket history, including their first-ever semifinal finish at the 2024 T20 World Cup, significant tournament wins, historic victories over top-ranked teams, and milestones that have enhanced the country’s global cricketing reputation.

Recently, Trott criticised the ACB for poor communication, stating he had no say in selecting the squad and had not spoken with top management or the chief selector.

However, Trott later confirmed that any miscommunication with the ACB had now been resolved and assured that relationships between both parties are now smooth.

“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. 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,” ACB said in their statement.

ACB Chairman Mirwais Ashraf said, “On behalf of the Afghanistan Cricket Board, I extend our sincere gratitude to Jonathan Trott for his dedicated service and the professionalism he brought to our national team. His efforts have supported a crucial period in the development of Afghanistan cricket, and we wish him every success in his future endeavours.”

–IANS

vi/bc