Jonathan Trott to take charge as Pretoria Capitals' coach ahead of SA20 2025
SA20 franchise Pretoria Capitals have roped in former England Test cricketer Jonathan Trott ahead of the 2025 edition, which will run from January 9 to February 8. Trott will replace Graham Ford, who the franchise got rid of following the 2024 edition.
One of the most successful England cricketers, Trott had a prolific Test career at No. 3. The former right-handed batter scored a ton on his debut during the 2009 Ashes series on home soil and was part of the squad that won the series in Australia in 2010-11. He stepped away from cricket due to mental health issues amid the 2013-14 Ashes series Down Under and played his final match in 2015.
The 43-year-old has had a successful stint with the Afghanistan men's team, having taken over in July 2022. He helped fashion wins for the Afghan team against England, Sri Lanka and Pakistan in the 2023 World Cup. The most significant achievement came this year when the national team reached the semi-finals of T20 World Cup 2024 after securing victories over New Zealand and Australia.
However, the South African-born lad signing a contract with the SA20 franchise raises speculation over his tenure as Afghanistan's coach. There is no official confirmation yet over Trott's departure as Afghanistan men's team's coach. He notably signed a contract earlier this year to remain in the position until the end of 2024.
With the third season beginning in 2025, Trott is likely to complete his term before beginning his tenure with the Capitals.
Pretoria Capitals finished as runners-up in SA20 2023 and stood 5th the following season
Meanwhile, the Capitals didn't have the desired outing in the 2024 edition, finishing fifth in the points table with three wins and six defeats in 10 fixtures. However, they were the runners-up in the inaugural edition, losing to the SunRisers Eastern Cape.
The fixtures for the 2025 edition are yet to be announced.