Jonathan Trott Appointed England Lions Head Coach For Winter Schedule 2026-27

Former England cricketer Jonathan Trott has been appointed as the head coach of the England Lions for their winter schedule in 2026-27. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) made the announcement on Monday. Trott, currently 45 years old, brings extensive international coaching experience to the position. He led Afghanistan's national team to their first ICC Men's T20 World Cup semifinal in 2024, and previously served as an assistant coach for the England men's team during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Trott's appointment is particularly significant as the England Lions embark on a busy winter tour schedule. He will lead the team on tours of the West Indies, South Africa, and Sri Lanka. The ECB's Men's Performance Director, Ed Barney, highlighted Trott's valuable international coaching experience and his personal journey through the Lions programme, which he believes will benefit the next generation of England players.

Trott, a three-time Ashes winner, has played 52 Tests and 75 white-ball matches for England. He also progressed through the England Lions programme during his playing career. In his new role, Trott expressed his delight at returning to the England setup and emphasized how the Lions programme is crucial in preparing players for international cricket.

The winter schedule for the England Lions includes T20 and ODI series in the West Indies (October 27 to November 21), South Africa (November 25 to December 23), and first-class matches in Sri Lanka (February 18 to March 14, 2027).