5 coaches Afghanistan should consider to dominate world cricket

Afghanistan’s growth in the sport has been remarkable over the years. They have produced some fine young talents who are making their presence felt on the world stage.

Afghanistan won four of their first 11 Tests, a record only second to Australia among debuting countries. Their standout achievement has to be their run to the semi-finals of the 2024 T20 World Cup. It was the first time they made it to the knockouts of a top-tier ICC event, by competing fiercely against world champion sides in the global tournament.

In a country that has its challenges, the game of cricket comes as a ray of hope for its people. The Blue Tigers have shown that they are no longer the minnows who could upset more established nations now and then. Instead, they have become an undeniable force in world cricket, and can never not go into a tournament as one of the favourites.

Jonathan Trott has been their head coach since July 2022. In December 2024, his contract was extended for another year. He has done a splendid job for the Asian side, mixing youth and experience and bringing the best out of the players. However, once his term ends, who could be the other coaches who could help them dominate world cricket?

5 coaches Afghanistan cricket team should hire for asserting dominance:

5. Gary Kirsten

Gary Kirsten is one of the most experienced coaches currently in world cricket. His most rewarding stint was with the Indian cricket team. Under his guidance, India won the ODI World Cup in 2011. This ended their 28-year wait for the coveted title.

Kirsten is a calm and composed operator. He also has a great knack for spotting talent. The former South African batter’s commendable man-management skills can also come in handy, especially with the growing number of world-class players in the Afghanistan setup.

4. Mickey Arthur

Mickey Arthur is the head of cricket at Derbyshire. He has the experience of working with teams like Sri Lanka, South Africa, Australia, and Pakistan. Arthur is someone who wears his heart on his sleeve, and this trait could align well with the Afghanistan players, who represent their nation with immense pride.

As Pakistan’s head coach, Arthur led them to the top of the T20I rankings, and the Men in Green also won the 2017 Champions Trophy during his tenure. He is known for his tactical acumen and strong sense of discipline and professionalism.

3. Jason Gillespie

Jason Gillespie was roped in by Pakistan as head coach of the red-ball team in April 2024. He had a contract till 2026. In October 2024, he took up the head coach’s role in white-ball cricket too. However, in December 2024, the former Australian speedster resigned, citing a lack of clarity from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

Gillespie’s philosophy revolves around bringing the team together. He also gives his players a lot of belief and trust. The 50-year-old played in an Australian team that made winning a habit. He will try to instil a similar culture in Afghanistan cricket.

2. Tom Moody

Tom Moody is one of the most experienced coaches, having had stints as head coach in teams like Sri Lanka, Punjab Kings, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Western Australia, Rangpur Riders, and Multan Sultans. Moody’s strength lies in his ability to understand the strong points and weaknesses of his players. He uses this information to his advantage and brings the best out of his players.

Moody is also someone who likes to create a positive and professional environment in the team. He believes that a happy team produces better results consistently. The former Australian cricketer also emphasises on mental toughness.

1. Andy Flower

Andy Flower has coached England, Saint Lucia Kings, Multan Sultans, Trent Rockets, and Lucknow Super Giants in the past. He led Royal Challengers Bengaluru to their much-awaited maiden Indian Premier League (IPL) title in 2024.

The former Zimbabwe cricketer relies on tactical intelligence and data-driven planning. He also focuses on the fitness of his players and advocates a culture of discipline in the dressing room. Flower has achieved considerable success across formats. He won three consecutive Ashes series, and England also won the 2010 T20 World Cup under his guidance. In franchise cricket, he has titles across PSL, ILT20, CPL, and The Hundred.