Afghanistan’s “coach by chance” Trott bids emotional farewell after T20WC exit
Afghanistan's coach Jonathan Trott bids an emotional farewell after the team's exit from the T20 World Cup. Reflecting on his tenure, Trott shared his gratitude and pride in witnessing the growth of players both on and off the field
Chennai: Overwhelmed with emotions but content with the memories he made, Afghanistan’s English coach Jonathan Trott has bid farewell to the role he got “by chance” four years ago.
The 44-year-old Trott stepped into the position that was originally offered to fellow Englishman Graham Thorpe, who could not take it up at that time. Afghanistan ended their campaign on Thursday with an 82-run win over Canada in their final group game after being knocked out of Super Eights contention.
Trott fought back tears as he spoke about his tenure with the side, which has grown into a serious contender in the white-ball formats.
With Trott at the helm, Afghanistan came close to qualifying for the 2023 ODI World Cup semi-final and made the knockout stage of the T20 World Cup 2024.
“Maybe the time’s right, maybe it’s not. I don’t know, but I wish everyone the best in the future. I’m very thankful for getting the opportunity. I got the opportunity by chance, really. Graham Thorpe was supposed to be the coach and he unfortunately couldn’t take up the role,” he said in the post-match interaction.
“I then got offered the job and took it with both hands. So I’m here by chance. I gave it my all. I hope the players can see the love that I have for the game and the care that I have for them as players and as people,” he added.
Trott, who was born in South Africa, said one of the biggest takeaways for him was the personal growth of players that he witnessed first-hand.
“…The great joy for me in this job is being able to see the players develop off the field as well and see lives change, not just on the field, but in the ability of players to change their families’ fortunes and direction as a family and as a group of people,” he said.
“So I think through this game we’ve been able to see that, and to be able to play a small part in that is very satisfying.
“Forget the cricket side, seeing boys who were young when I took over develop into young men is something that is very worthwhile,” he noted.
Asked if he had felt emotional over the last few days or during the tournament, Trott said the mixed results had added to his thoughts.
“I think I’ve caught myself at times thinking we’ve been a little unlucky. Obviously, we’d love a centimetre or two against South Africa to get across the line,” he said, referring to the loss to the Proteas after two Super Overs.
“Who knows how South Africa would have played the next game against New Zealand if we had won that match in normal time and not extra time or the Super Over.”
“…I’m very thankful for the opportunity and that’s all I have to really say on that,” he added.
