Mike Hesson emerges as strong contender for Pakistan's head coach role

Mike Hesson, the former head coach of the New Zealand cricket team, has emerged as a strong contender to take over as the head coach of the Pakistan national cricket team, replacing Aaqib Javed.

Currently serving as the head coach of Islamabad United in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), Hesson has reportedly been approached by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for the vacant role. Sources suggest that talks between Hesson and PCB officials are ongoing.

This is not the first time the PCB has contacted Hesson. The board had reached out to him last year as well, but he declined the offer due to prior commitments.

According to insiders, former Pakistan head coach Saqlain Mushtaq was also being considered, but Hesson appears to be the frontrunner at this stage. The PCB is once again leaning towards hiring a foreign head coach, as the pool of eligible local candidates remains limited.

The board has specified that applicants must hold a Level 3 coaching certification, and the deadline for submissions is May 4.

Mike Hesson was appointed as New Zealand’s head coach in July 2012, succeeding John Wright. He also has experience coaching in the Indian Premier League (IPL), further strengthening his credentials for the role.