Emotional Trott signs off from a journey that began by chance

There was a brief pause before Jonathan Trott gathered his thoughts. For much of the press conference that followed Afghanistan's final group game of the T20 World Cup, he spoke with composure. But when asked about his journey with the team, the 44-year-old found it hard to hold back tears. "I said I didn't want to get upset," he admitted before revisiting a journey he described as both accidental and deeply fulfilling.

The decision to part ways after the T20 World Cup was made months ago. Afghanistan's campaign this time didn't match their 2024 heroics, ending with a win over Canada. Opener Ibrahim Zadran, who made an unbeaten 95, dedicated his Player of the Match award to Trott and was present for his coach's farewell reflections.

Trott chose to look back at the human side of a team that has evolved significantly since he took charge in 2022. "Lots of great memories," Trott said. "Beating Pakistan for the first time in a World Cup, beating England, bilateral series wins away from home against teams like Pakistan, Bangladesh, South Africa. I've been fortunate to have coached some really great players, some really good humans."

For Trott, the role was never part of his original plan. He was handed the opportunity by chance, stepping in after Graham Thorpe was originally set to take the position. "Graham Thorpe was supposed to be the coach and he unfortunately couldn't take up the role. I then got offered the job and took it with both hands. So I'm here by chance. I gave it my all."

While Afghanistan's rise is often linked to their star spinners, Trott pointed to a quieter transformation—the shift from a collection of individuals to a more cohesive unit. "I remember my first trip… If you just add a little bit of structure to the mindset, professionalism and the high standards that we hold ourselves to, it makes a big difference. That first tour to where we are now is chalk and cheese."

He redirected credit to the players, emphasising the context in which they operate. Afghanistan still deals with limitations like not having a permanent home base. "They operate at such a high level compared to what they're afforded… they don't have the sort of day-to-day coaching that young players have, academies and facilities. The amount of coaching I've had compared to the coaching that these guys are now operating at international levels is chalk and cheese. So, I take my hat off to every single one of them."

Trott highlighted the players' development off the field. "The great joy for me is being able to see the players develop off the field as well and lives change, the ability for players to change their families' fortunes. Seeing guys developing as young boys when I took over and developing into young men is something that is very worthwhile."

On Afghanistan's future, Trott urged the development of squad depth. "We've put up 180 against New Zealand, nearly chased 187 against South Africa. I'm talking about the depth in having different players, maybe another left-hander… Those little things that the top teams have the options of."

Regarding his next move, Trott admitted he hadn't decided, but would love to coach England someday. "I don't know what the future holds. I'm very proud of where I played my cricket and always like to see the England side do well. I'd love to one day hopefully have the opportunity to coach a team that you hold so dear to your heart. I've certainly enjoyed the last couple of years here. My tenure here has been ups and downs, but I've some great memories."