Mike Hesson a Strong Contender for Pakistan Cricket Head Coach

Mike Hesson, the former head coach of New Zealand, has surfaced as a prominent candidate for the role of head coach for the Pakistan men’s cricket team, potentially taking over from Aqib Javed.

Hesson is presently the head coach for Islamabad United, a team that has won the Pakistan Super League (PSL) three times. Reportedly, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reached out to him.

The PCB had previously shown interest in Hesson. However, he turned down the offer due to existing commitments. Now, new discussions are ongoing between Hesson and the PCB.

Although Saqlain Mushtaq, the previous head coach for Pakistan, was considered, Hesson seems to be the leading candidate. The PCB is inclined to select a foreign head coach, which aligns with their recent approach.

Those interested in the coaching position must possess a Level Three coaching certification, with a submission deadline set for May 4. Given the limited availability of suitable candidates, the PCB is giving preference to a foreign appointee.

Hesson’s coaching record is impressive, having led New Zealand from 2012 to 2018 after succeeding John Wright. He also has experience in demanding environments, including coaching positions in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Pakistan’s coaching setup has undergone considerable changes recently. Last April, Jason Gillespie, the former Australian fast bowler, was appointed as the Test coach on a two-year agreement.

However, he resigned in December after an inconsistent tenure marked by internal issues, just before Pakistan’s Test series at home against South Africa.

Gillespie’s departure occurred after Gary Kirsten stepped down as the white-ball head coach in October, merely six months into his tenure.

Reports indicate that Kirsten’s relationship with PCB officials was strained, and he struggled to adapt to the team’s organizational structure.

Following these resignations, Aqib Javed, a former Pakistan pacer, was appointed as the interim white-ball coach until the 2025 Champions Trophy.

His role was extended to cover Pakistan’s recent white-ball tour of New Zealand, which included a five-match T20I series followed by three ODIs.