Afghanistan National Cricket Team vs Canada National Cricket Team Match: Afghanistan cricket captain Rashid Khan has paid tribute to Jonathan Trott, the team’s outgoing head coach, ahead of their final match in the 2026 T20 World Cup against Canada on Thursday, February 19, 2026. Rashid said Trott, a former England international, had been instrumental in guiding Afghanistan to new heights. "We have a series against Sri Lanka straight after the World Cup and then the IPL. Tomorrow is Jonathan Trott's last game with us. We've had some unbelievable games and tours with him. He has been someone who has taken Afghanistan cricket to where it is now," Rashid said on the eve of the Canada clash. "I think he has worked so hard with every single one. Definitely everyone around us will miss him so much. He played a main role in taking this team on the right way, right path."
Under Trott’s guidance since July 2022, Afghanistan has grown into a competitive side across formats. Rashid said the team’s progress was the result of consistent effort and strategic planning. “"Now nothing is easy for us. Teams will come against us with different plans. It's about how we manage ourselves, upgrade our skills and stay one step ahead of the opposition. That depends on individuals and how we prepare ourselves," he said.
Looking ahead, Rashid highlighted the importance of continuous improvement as teams prepare for the upcoming ICC ODI World Cup in South Africa. "We have gone through tough and pressure situations, but individually you have to think about how you're going to respond and perform for the team," he said.
When asked about veteran all-rounder Mohammad Nabi’s international future, Rashid said the decision rests solely with the player. "I think I need to ask him. Well, individually, everybody knows himself very well, than anybody else to say, it's time for you to go. I think he is still fit. He is still doing well for the team.”
"He is still fielding on the boundary and running better than any other youngster in the team, and I feel like you still have some cricket left, but it's all about individual decision. It's all about till what time you enjoy your cricket. For me personally, till I enjoy, I will play. Once that stops, I don't see myself playing anymore," he said.
Afghanistan’s 2026 T20 World Cup campaign began with a heavy defeat to New Zealand and a close loss to South Africa, including a double Super Over defeat. The team then recorded a five-wicket win over the UAE, but it was not enough to advance. Their final match against Canada could mark a new phase for Afghanistan cricket, with older players like Nabi, 41, possibly stepping aside for younger talent.
Trott’s tenure saw Afghanistan reach the semi-finals of the 2024 T20 World Cup, including a stunning victory over Australia, and achieve notable wins in the 2023 ODI World Cup against Pakistan and England. His leadership has been widely credited with the team’s rise on the international stage.
Afghanistan v UAE | ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 | Match Highlights
