Afghan futsal player Reza Hosseinpoor signs with UAE's Shabab Al Ahli; cricket coach Jonathan Trott departs

Afghan futsal player Reza Hosseinpoor has signed with Shabab Al Ahli Club, a leading sports club in Dubai founded in 1958. The club is known for its football, futsal and handball teams, which compete at top levels in UAE and regional competitions, and for its youth program developing local and international talent. Hosseinpoor, a key player for Afghanistan's national futsal team, is expected to enhance the club's performance in domestic and regional tournaments. The move is viewed as a milestone for Afghan futsal, providing greater exposure and professional opportunities for players from the country.

Jonathan Trott, who coached Afghanistan through a successful period including a semi-final run at the 2024 T20 World Cup, has departed following the team's 2026 ICC Men's T20 World Cup campaign. Afghanistan ended its Group D matches with an 82-run victory over Canada in Chennai, powered by Ibrahim Zadran's unbeaten 95, despite earlier losses to New Zealand and South Africa that prevented Super Eights qualification.

Trott reflected on highlights such as World Cup wins over Pakistan and England, and bilateral victories against Pakistan, Bangladesh and South Africa. "I always feel very fortunate enough to have had a lot of memories as a player but also now as a coach as well," he said, citing specific matches like beating Pakistan in Chennai and England in St. Vincent.

Looking forward, Trott emphasized the need for more seam bowlers to support spinners Rashid Khan and Mujeeb Ur Rahman. "The consistency and development of some more seamers that will aid the spinners... so that when the team plays in conditions perhaps like the World Cup in 2027 (in South Africa and Namibia), they’ll be able to handle all different varieties of conditions," he noted.

The 44-year-old plans a short break before considering future roles, including a personal dream of coaching England. "I’ve certainly enjoyed the last couple of years here. My tenure here has been ups and downs, but I’ve some great memories," Trott said.