Former New Zealand coach Mike Hesson has surfaced as the top applicant for the next head coach the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is selecting for the national squad. Currently guiding Islamabad United in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season 10.
Hesson’s outstanding performance and background qualify him as a good candidate for the post. His name has also been trending among cricket discussions on platforms like the Billy 777 earning app, where fans are actively sharing their opinions on potential coaching appointments.
Recently, the PCB posted the job, stressing that candidates must have at least ten years of local or foreign coaching experience and a Level 3 coaching certification. Having previously coached the New Zealand national team and acted as the Director of Cricket for the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Hesson meets these requirements exactly.
Hesson’s Coaching Credentials
Mike Hesson is not unfamiliar with high-stress coaching responsibilities. Significant success accompanied his 2012–2018 term as head coach for New Zealand, notably guiding the Black Cap to the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup final. Under his direction, New Zealand created a strong and competitive cricket brand that gained recognition on the international scene.
Following his time with New Zealand, Hesson joined Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Indian Premier League, where he served as Director of Cricket. His strategic acumen and leadership enabled RCB to repeatedly make it to the playoffs, proving his ability to manage top players in a brutal T20 competition.
Success in the Pakistan Super League Hesson’s relationship with Pakistan cricket grew stronger when he became PSL 9 coach for Islamabad United. His first season was a great success since he helped the club win using guidance. Both spectators and players have come to know him as a popular person because of his tactical sense and capacity to develop fresh potential.
Given his knowledge of Pakistan’s cricket scene and PSL success, Hesson is a fit head coach for the national team. His awareness of local players and circumstances helps determine Pakistan’s course in international cricket going forward.
Empty Space Following Gary Kirsten’s Leave
Since Gary Kirsten quit, the head coach post has been empty. Former Pakistan fast bowler Aaqib Javed became interim coach when Kirsten left. However, Javed’s contract expires in February 2025, and he has indicated little interest in renewing it, so the PCB is looking for a long-term fix.
Other Arguments for the Position
Though Hesson leads, the PCB is also looking at other contenders. Also in contention is former Pakistan spinner Saqlain Mushtaq, who has temporarily coached the team. Saqlain is a good substitute because of his excellent knowledge of spin bowling and national team experience.
However, Hesson has an advantage over other applicants because of his established success in franchise cricket and foreign background. The PCB will support a coach with a solid tactical approach who can manage the demands of running a high-profile squad like Pakistan.
1. Trials Ahead for the New Coach
The head coach of Pakistan will have many difficulties with whoever takes over:
One should have consistency in performance.
Pakistan’s cricket team has been erratic recently, with great performances often followed by surprising falls. The fresh coach would have to inculcate discipline and mental toughness in the team.
2. Expanding Young Talent
The coach has to find and develop future stars while balancing with seasoned players as several young players in domestic cricket and the PSL start to shine.
3. Managing Stress and Expectations
In Pakistan, cricket is a passion; hence, supporters have great expectations. While keeping the team focused on performance, the coach must handle media attention, fan pressure, and board demands.
4. Enhancing Overseas Record
Pakistan has lately struggled in the away Test series. The new coach must create plans to improve team performance in different environments.
Why Hesson Might Be the Perfect Match
Hesson is an excellent prospect because of his cool head, analytical approach, and experience in several cricketing environments. His performance in T20 leagues and with New Zealand points to his ability to adapt to several playing environments and techniques.
Furthermore, his recent PSL attendance indicates he already has a working relationship with some Pakistani players, which might facilitate a seamless transfer. Should he be selected, Hesson’s first main task could be attending the forthcoming ICC events, where Pakistan seeks to recover its ranking among the top cricketing countries.
To read more blog: Pakistan vs Bangladesh T20I Series: Faisalabad to Host International Cricket
Finish
Pakistan Cricket’s choice of a new head coach will determine its destiny. Mike Hesson, with his background and recent PSL performance, is the top applicant. Before deciding, though, the board has to consider every alternative thoroughly.
Should Hesson be hired, his challenge will be to introduce stability, strategic depth, and a winning mindset to the Pakistan team. With the correct strategy, he might enable Pakistan cricket to soar in the next few years.
