Jonathan Trott Clears the Air with Afghanistan Board, Eyes Fresh Start Before Zimbabwe Series
Afghanistan head trainer Jonathan Trott has verified that the fog of miscommunication with the Afghanistan Cricket Board( ACB) has eventually lifted.
The Englishman, known for his composed yet assertive approach, assured that both he and the board are now completely aligned as Afghanistan prepares to face Zimbabwe in a three-match T20I series starting in Harare.
Pressures had brewed before this month after reports surfaced of setbacks in collaboration between Trott and ACB officers, particularly regarding player selections and unborn planning.
However, Trott’s latest comments indicate a reset in relations, one that comes at a pivotal moment for the Afghan side following a frustrating Asia Cup and a disappointing Test run.
“Had a good discussion, the ACB, myself, and all the stakeholders and top management, and we’ve come to an agreement on how to move forward.
Afghanistan Head Coach Jonathan Trott in the pre-match press conference: The misunderstanding and miscommunication with ACB have been successfully resolved. Our focus is now fully directed toward thorough preparations for the upcoming T20 World Cup.#ZIMvAFG #AfghanistanCricket pic.twitter.com/lruINJrJuH
— Bashir Gharwal غروال (@bashir_gharwall) October 28, 2025
I think it’s been resolved, and any miscommunication or misunderstanding has been sorted out,” Trott said, speaking candidly to reporters in Harare.
The coach, who took over the Afghan reins in 2022, suggested that the open discussions had not only cleared the air but strengthened internal unity.
“The communication is now in place, and we’re all working together, building up for a strong Zimbabwe side and looking beyond that to the T20 World Cup in the subcontinent.”
Trott’s calm yet confident tone was a far cry from the uncertainty that had clouded Afghanistan’s camp weeks earlier. The timing couldn’t be better, with the T20 World Cup less than a year away, cohesion is crucial.
Trott admitted that the talks were not only necessary but, in hindsight, constructive.
“I think sometimes these discussions are healthy, as you realize where things can be improved on both sides.
The communication over the last few days has been brilliant, I’ve really enjoyed that and I’m looking forward to the next few months,” he said.
According to sources close to the ACB, the board remains eager to retain Trott well beyond the upcoming tournaments. The 43-year-old former England international confirmed that commitment himself.
“It’s been some good discussion in the last few days. I’ve signed a contract through to the end of the 2026 World Cup, and I’m obviously excited about the future and the next few months.
We were disappointed with how the Asia Cup went, but we need to bounce back. The guys have been training well.”
Under Trott’s leadership, Afghanistan has transformed into a disciplined and fearless unit, registering landmark victories against South Africa and Bangladesh.
Their semi-final appearance in the 2024 T20 World Cup cemented their rise as one of the sport’s emerging forces.
The coach insists that the upcoming Zimbabwe series is more than just a warm-up; it’s an opportunity to regain rhythm and confidence.
“We’re here to win and to build as much momentum as possible in the last few months leading up to the World Cup,” Trott concluded.
The Afghan side will clash with Zimbabwe on October 29, 31, and November 3, using the series not only to test combinations but also to reaffirm their intent.
