Mike Hesson Discusses His New Role as Pakistan’s White-Ball Coach

LAHORE: Mike Hesson, the newly appointed head coach for Pakistan’s white-ball cricket teams, shared his thoughts on the expectations and difficulties he anticipates in his new position on Thursday.

In a detailed conversation featured on the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) podcast, Hesson revealed the factors that influenced his decision to accept the role and his planned strategy for the transition.

When asked if he had spoken with previous coaches or asked for advice before taking the job, the former cricketer emphasised that he knew the challenges ahead and that it was important to agree with the PCB leadership.

Hesson’s Perspective

“I believe I’ve come into this role fully aware of the past. It was crucial for me to engage in discussions with essential individuals to ensure we shared a common understanding — especially regarding the fact that immediate results are unlikely. I am aware that we will experience highs and lows. However, as long as we are conscious of the significant upcoming events and our desired peak performance times, we can follow a strategic process,” Hesson stated.

The 50-year-old coach emphasised a basic idea that he thinks is necessary for any sports team to succeed: a sense of togetherness and a mutual understanding among everyone in key leadership roles within the team’s structure.

“I needed assurance that everyone in crucial roles, including those at the NCA, the chairman, the selectors, and senior players, shared the same goals. While we may have slightly different ideas about the path, we need to have trust,” he elaborated.

Hesson voiced his confidence in the alignment of their visions and his dedication to the role over the long term.

“I gained real confidence after several discussions, where we questioned each other about our desired direction. I’m not interested in a brief six-month stint with temporary gains or setbacks before moving on. I view this as a longer-term project, especially the chance to work with players outside of tours, which was vital for both the PCB and me,” he added.

Hesson also mentioned a key element that greatly influenced his choice to join the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

“Substantial changes are needed in players’ fielding techniques, as well as their bowling and batting approaches, which can’t be achieved in just a few days before a series,” he concluded.

It’s worth noting that PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi formally announced Mike Hesson, former New Zealand cricketer and well-known coach, as Pakistan’s new white-ball coach on May 13. The 50-year-old coach had an immediate effect in his first assignment, leading the team to a 3-0 T20I series victory over Bangladesh, which was Pakistan’s first home series win since December 2021.