Mike Hesson has officially been named the head coach for Pakistan’s white-ball cricket team. Currently with Islamabad United, the PSL defending champions, Hesson is set to join the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) from 26th May, following the conclusion of the PSL 2025. Although the PCB hasn’t disclosed the contract’s duration, ESPNcricinfo sources suggest a two-year term.
Hesson takes over from Aqib Javed, who has served as the interim head coach for five months following Gary Kirsten’s sudden resignation halfway through his two-year contract. Javed is now tasked with the role of director of High Performance, and it’s understood he will stay a decisive part of the PCB selection committee.
In a statement about the appointment, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi expressed, “I am pleased to announce the appointment of former New Zealand cricketer and renowned coach Mike Hesson as the white-ball head coach of the Pakistan men’s team. Mike brings with him a wealth of international experience and a proven track record of developing competitive sides. We look forward to his expertise and leadership in shaping the future of Pakistan’s white-ball cricket. Welcome to the team, Mike!”
The PCB identified Hesson as their top choice for the role soon after the vacancy arose in April. His debut assignment is a potential five-match T20I series against Bangladesh, providing it proceeds as planned.
Hesson, 50, enjoyed a successful tenure as the head coach of New Zealand from 2012, transforming them into a formidable outfit. During his leadership, New Zealand reached their first World Cup final in 2015, though they were ultimately bested by Australia. He later served as director of cricket for Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the IPL until 2023.
As of now, Pakistan has not filled the position of a red-ball coach, with no announcement on an impending appointment. Aqib Javed was the interim Test coach for the recent series against South Africa and the home matches against the West Indies, following Jason Gillespie’s resignation six months into his role. Pakistan’s next Test engagement is slated for October against South Africa on home soil.
