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The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially appointed former New Zealand cricketer Mike Hesson as the white-ball head coach (ODIs and T20Is) of the Pakistan men’s national team. This announcement was made via a press release on Tuesday, as Pakistan looks to rebuild its coaching structure ahead of a busy international calendar.
The position had been left vacant following the resignation of Gary Kirsten, who stepped down after only seven months on October 29 due to reported differences with PCB management. In the interim, former pacer Aaqib Javed was given the role until the ICC Champions Trophy earlier this year.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi confirmed Hesson’s appointment in a post on X (formerly Twitter), stating:
“After evaluation of numerous applications received against the vacancy, I’m pleased to announce that former New Zealand cricketer and renowned coach, Mike Hesson, will join us as the new White-ball Head Coach for the Pakistan National Team.”
Naqvi added that Hesson will officially take charge from May 26, just a day after Bangladesh’s T20 team arrives in Pakistan for a five-match series.
Hesson’s Experience and Expectations:
Mike Hesson is currently coaching Islamabad United in the Pakistan Super League and has previously served as the head coach of New Zealand and Kenya. Known for his analytical approach and team-building skills, Hesson's appointment is expected to bring tactical depth and stability to a struggling Pakistan side.
Aaqib Javed’s New Role:
In a separate move aimed at overhauling the cricket infrastructure, Aaqib Javed has been appointed as Director of High Performance. Mohsin Naqvi welcomed this decision, saying:
“To strengthen our cricket infrastructure, Aaqib Javed joins us as Director of High Performance, complementing Mike Hesson’s appointment.”
Challenges Ahead:
Pakistan has suffered underwhelming performances in recent major tournaments including the 2023 Asia Cup, ODI World Cup, 2024 T20 World Cup, and the ICC Champions Trophy. With a new coaching setup, the PCB hopes to turn around the team’s form and prepare strongly for future international challenges.
As Pakistan prepares to host Bangladesh in a crucial T20 series starting May 25, all eyes will be on how the new leadership duo of Hesson and Aaqib Javed can reinvigorate Pakistan cricket.