Former Australia wicketkeeper-batter Shane McDermott has been appointed as Afghanistan's new assistant and fielding coach, strengthening the team's coaching staff ahead of a busy international schedule.
The 45-year-old will officially join the Afghanistan camp on August 1, just days before the team begins its five-match ODI series against Ireland. McDermott will work alongside head coach Richard Pybus, who took over the role earlier this year after replacing Jonathan Trott.
McDermott has built an impressive
coaching résumé over the years, particularly in the fielding department. He previously served as the assistant fielding coach for Bangladesh for three years before spending another three years with Sri Lanka in a similar role.
His most recent assignment came with Pakistan, where he worked as the national team's all-format fielding coach from July 2025 to July 2026. His departure from the Pakistan setup earlier this year came as a surprise, but he has now taken up a fresh challenge with Afghanistan.
Afghanistan's tour of Ireland will also mark a new chapter for the team, with Rahmat Shah set to captain the ODI side for the first time.
The five-match series will begin in Bready, where the opening two ODIs are scheduled to be played on August 5 and August 7. The remaining three matches will then be held in Belfast on August 10, August 12, and August 15.
Afghanistan likely to host India in Delhi
Following the Ireland series, Afghanistan are expected to host India in a three-match T20I series in September.
As per reports, the matches are likely to be played at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi on September 13, 15, and 17, although the fixtures are yet to receive official confirmation.
The series is expected to create history, as it would mark the first time Afghanistan hosts India on Indian soil. Afghanistan have previously staged their home matches in Greater Noida, Dehradun, and Lucknow, but have never hosted India in one of their adopted home venues.
