Afghanistan head coach Jonathan Trott reveals reason behind team’s defeat against Sri Lanka and exit from Asia Cup 2025

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Afghanistan entered the Asia Cup 2025 as one of the most exciting and dangerous sides in the tournament, with experts and fans alike backing them to make it to the Super Four and even challenge for a place in the final. Their bowling depth, experienced all-rounders, and fearless batting order made them a genuine threat.

However, their campaign ended abruptly after a crucial defeat against Sri Lanka in a must-win encounter, which not only dashed their hopes but also confirmed their elimination from the competition. Sri Lanka and Bangladesh progressed to the Super Four stage from the group, while Afghanistan bowed out despite flashes of brilliance during their short stay.

Notably, Afghanistan began their campaign in style, crushing Hong Kong by 94 runs in their opening clash. The performance lifted expectations, with Sediqullah Atal and Azmatullah Omarzai leading the way with strong displays. But their momentum faltered in the second match against Bangladesh. In a closely fought contest, Afghanistan fell short by just eight runs, a defeat that significantly dented their qualification chances.

The final group match against Sri Lanka was a do-or-die clash, where Afghanistan needed to deliver their best. Mohammad Nabi’s late fireworks powered them to a competitive total of 169/8, but their bowlers and fielders could not defend it. Sri Lanka chased the target with six wickets in hand, sealing Afghanistan’s exit from the Asia Cup.

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Following the disappointing result, head coach Jonathan Trott addressed the media and offered a candid assessment of his side’s performance. Trott admitted that while the batting unit did its job reasonably well, it was in the bowling and fielding departments where Afghanistan let the game slip.

“It was a very disappointing loss and a hard one to swallow. We felt we were in a good position, especially after Nabi’s heroics helped us reach 170. The batters actually played well, but we let them off with our bowling and fielding,” Trott said during the post-match press conference.

Trott further highlighted the importance of seizing key moments, particularly in powerplays and under pressure. He spoke about the basic errors that players made and became the biggest reason behind the team’s defeat.

“We didn’t start well in the powerplay with the ball and gave them an early advantage. Too many basic errors—whether in batting, bowling, or fielding—cost us. You don’t win games of cricket, certainly in tournaments like this, with those mistakes. Full credit to Bangladesh, who go through along with Sri Lanka,” he added.

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