The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has appointed former New Zealand coach Mike Hesson as the new head coach for Pakistan’s ODI and T20I teams. He will officially take over on May 26, 2025, following the end of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) season.
A Proven Leader with Global Experience
Mike Hesson, 50, is best known for his time as head coach of the New Zealand national team from 2012 to 2018. During his six-year tenure, he led the Black Caps to the final of the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup and helped establish them as a dominant team, especially at home. He later worked as Director of Cricket Operations for Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Indian Premier League from 2019 until stepping down in 2023.
Hesson is currently head coach of Islamabad United, the reigning PSL champions, and is now set to bring his international experience to Pakistan’s white-ball teams.
Coaching Reshuffle in Pakistan Cricket
Hesson replaces Aaqib Javed, who had been serving as interim head coach after the resignation of Gary Kirsten in October 2024. Aaqib has now been appointed as the PCB’s Director of High Performance, where he will focus on player development and strengthening the country’s cricketing systems.
What’s Next for Pakistan?
Hesson’s first major challenge will be the five-match T20I series against Bangladesh, scheduled later this month. The PCB hopes that his leadership will reinvigorate the team and bring stability ahead of major upcoming tournaments.
PCB’s Confidence in Hesson
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi welcomed the appointment, saying, “Mike brings a wealth of international experience and has a history of building competitive, successful teams. We are confident he will help Pakistan’s white-ball sides reach new heights.”
With Hesson now in charge of the ODI and T20I teams, Pakistan looks forward to a new chapter under a seasoned and respected coach.
