In Jonathan Trott’s four-year tenure as head coach, Afghanistan scaled new heights, notably reaching the semifinals of the 2024 T20 World Cup. It is now upon Richard Pybus, 61, to build on the foundation laid by the former England batter.

Whilst acknowledging Trott’s efforts, Pybus wants to go into his maiden assignment — a Test against India at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh Stadium from Saturday — with a clean slate. “I did have a chat with Jonathan to hear from him about the role, and also to congratulate him because he’s done so well to develop the side. When I start with a team, I start with a blank slate though,” the England-born coach said on Friday.

Pybus’ first Afghanistan challenge is compounded by Rashid Khan’s unavailability. “Look, Rashid has got this long-standing back complaint. He’s got such a huge volume of cricket and he’s got to manage himself. I look forward to having that conversation to see how we can support him to continue to play red-ball cricket,” Pybus informed.