Trott admits to Afghanistan's concerns while chasing

With an eye on the upcoming T20 World Cup, Afghanistan head coach Jonathan Trott says the team needs to learn to chase better in T20Is.

Afghanistan concluded their final preparation phase with a three-match T20I series against West Indies in Dubai, winning 2-1. Both victories came when batting first.

Since the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup, Afghanistan have played 21 T20Is, batting first 15 times. In the six games where they chased, they won only two, while 10 of their wins came batting first.

"When you have the quality of bowlers that we do, when you're setting a target and defending it, your percentages are probably going to be a little bit better," said Trott. "But I do think we need to improve while chasing, and that's why we decided to chase today," he added after losing the third T20I. "It was a good game and showed areas where we need to be better."

Three of Afghanistan's four group games in the World Cup are scheduled for 11:00 AM local time starts, unlike the night games in Dubai. Trott is not concerned.

"We've got quite a few day games as well and that's why we're here in Dubai. We've got another week here practicing at similar times and practice matches at similar times," he said. "And then we've got day games for our warm-up games in India on the 2nd and the 4th, so we'll be well-prepared for the 8th in Chennai."

"There's been no dew here in Dubai, so that's been fine whether it's under lights. But now we're changing our body clocks for morning times in India."

On losing Naveen-ul-Haq to injury, Trott said it was a blow but an opportunity for others.

"We've called Zia-ur-Rehman Sharafi in, and he's bowled really well in the games—maybe a little expensive today—but there's a lot of talent there," said Trott. "Obviously, Naveen's injured, and that's unfortunate, but somebody else has got to take his place and step up. Hopefully, Zia is the guy for that. We rested a few players today as well to give opportunities. On tonight's result and performance, there's always work to be done."