Afghanistan extend Jonathan Trott’s tenure as head coach

Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) extended Jonathan Trott’s contract as the head coach of the national team. The former England cricketer has done a commendable job as Afghanistan did well under his guidance in the ODI World Cup 2023 and qualified for the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup 2024. Keeping the progress in mind, ACB decided to extend his contract till 2025. 

The governing body confirmed that they were happy with Trott after his successful 2.5-year stint with the team, during which Afghanistan achieved significant milestones. 

“Afghanistan Cricket Board confirms the extension of the contract with Mr Jonathan Trott, the National Team’s Head Coach, for the year 2025. The decision comes in after his successful 2.5-year tenure, during which he made significant contributions to the team’s progress and development,” the ACB said in a statement.

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According to reports, Trott was considering parting ways with Afghanistan after December 2024 and for the same reason, he signed as the head coach of Pretoria Capitals in the SA20. However, the ACB managed to convince him to stay for another year, particularly keeping the Champions Trophy 2025 in mind.

Meanwhile, Trott won’t be part of the upcoming T20I series against Zimbabwe due to personal commitments. In his absence, Hamid Hassan will oversee the team. Nawrol Mangal has been named as the assistant coach of the series.

“During the tour, Mr Jonathan Trott will accompany the squad only in ODIs, whereas he will remain unavailable for the T20Is and Test matches due to his commitments. Hamid Hassan will step up and take on the role of Head Coach in Trott’s absence, and Nawroz Mangal, who recently helped the AfghanAbdalyan lineup to the Emerging Asia Cup glory, will serve as Assistant Head Coach during the series,” the statement read.