PCB appoint new head coach for Pakistan's white-ball team

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially appointed former New Zealand cricketer and experienced coach Mike Hesson as the new white-ball head coach for the Pakistan men’s cricket team. The appointment, which is effective immediately, will begin from May 26.

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi announced the news via the social media platform 'X,' expressing his excitement about Hesson’s arrival. 

Naqvi stated, “I'm pleased to announce that former New Zealand cricketer and renowned coach, Mike Hesson, will join us as the new Whiteball Head Coach for the Pakistan National Team."

“We look forward to his expertise and guidance in shaping the future of Pakistani cricket. Welcome to the team, Mike!” he added. 

Hesson’s appointment comes just ahead of Pakistan’s five-match T20I series against Bangladesh, which was initially scheduled for later this month. However, the series is expected to be delayed due to the revised schedule of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10, which will conclude with its final on May 25. The opening match of the T20I series was supposed to take place in Faisalabad on May 25, but the PSL final has created a scheduling conflict. As a result, the T20I series will now be rescheduled, with further details to be confirmed.

Mike Hesson brings a wealth of coaching experience to his new role. He served as New Zealand’s head coach from 2012 to 2018, following the tenure of John Wright. During Hesson’s leadership, New Zealand achieved remarkable success, including reaching the ICC Cricket World Cup final in 2015.

Hesson has also gained experience coaching in the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he further demonstrated his ability to thrive in challenging conditions. His appointment is seen as a strategic move to strengthen Pakistan’s white-ball cricket as the team prepares for upcoming international challenges.