**Jonathan Trott** bids an emotional farewell as Afghanistan head coach. Afghanistan decided to bow out of the **ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026** after an impressive 82-run win over Canada in their last Group D match at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on February 19, 2026.
Despite the win, Afghanistan’s campaign ended in the group stage as they failed to qualify for the Super 8s due to earlier defeats to New Zealand and South Africa (including a tied Super Over match). South Africa and New Zealand advanced from Group D.
Trott, who took charge in July 2022 (initially following Graham Thorpe’s absence), spoke proudly of his successes over three years. Highlights included Afghanistan reaching the semi-finals in the 2024 T20 World Cup, defeating Pakistan (for the first time in a World Cup 50-over match at this venue), England in St. Vincent, and bilateral wins against Pakistan, Bangladesh and South Africa. He thanked “great players and good people” for coaching him, leaving behind good memories as both a player and a coach.
In his post-match press conference, an emotional Trott (reportedly in tears) said he was “proud of what we achieved” and was lucky for this journey that started “suddenly”. He noted the team’s growing batting depth, but stressed the need for more consistent, quality seam bowlers to support spinners Rashid Khan and Mujeeb Ur Rahman to deliver better performances in different conditions, such as the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa and Namibia.
Trott is still unsure about his future plans, and is hoping to take a break before deciding on his next steps. He praised England and expressed his desire to coach them someday, and also wished Afghanistan continued success.
In the farewell match, Afghanistan scored 200/4: opener **Ibrahim Zadran** scored an unbeaten 95 off 56 balls (7×4, 5×6; his T20I best and the most by an Afghan in the tournament), and shared a 95-run partnership with Sediqullah Atal (44). Zadran dedicated his Player of the Match award to Trott. Chasing 201, Canada collapsed to 118/8, with **Mohammad Nabi** taking 4/7 (his T20I best).
Trott’s stay made Afghanistan known throughout the world, earning him a lot of respect and praise from players and fans.
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