Jonathan Trott has been appointed head coach of the England Lions for their upcoming winter programme. Trott’s appointment comes following Andrew Flintoff's departure from the position earlier this year. Trott, meanwhile, will oversee the Lions during a busy period that includes tours of the Caribbean, South Africa and Sri Lanka. He is already familiar with the Lions setup, having recently guided the side in their two T20 victories over Sri Lanka. Trott recently stepped down as Afghanistan's head coach at the end of the T20 World Cup in February. He served as Afghanistan head coach for four years after being appointed in 2022. 

“Jonathan Trott is an outstanding coach who has a proven record in international cricket. We are delighted that he has agreed to lead our Lions programme during a busy winter,” ECB Men’s Performance Director, Ed Barney, said.

“This winter’s Lions schedule has a 50-over focus across three tours as we look to prepare the next-in-line players for one-day international cricket. Alongside this, we have some key red-ball fixtures which will continue to provide opportunities to excel on the world stage whilst develop a broad skill set.

“Jonathan’s coaching expertise, and as a former England player who knows the value of the Lions programme having come through it himself, will be invaluable for those players as they look to progress their careers.”

During the summer, Trott also worked with Ireland as well as Glamorgan.

“I’m delighted to be back working in the England set-up and hugely excited to take on the role of Head Coach of the England Lions. Having played for the Lions myself, I know how valuable the experience can be in helping players develop, both on and off the field, and it played an important part in my own journey,” Trott said. 

“I’m really looking forward to working with the players and staff, helping them fulfil their potential and preparing them for the demands of international cricket.