LAHORE – The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially appointed Mike Hesson as the new head coach for the Pakistan men’s national white-ball cricket team, with his tenure beginning on May 26, 2025.
The decision was made following a comprehensive recruitment process that saw numerous applications evaluated for the high-profile role. The position had been vacant since October 29, 2024, when former head coach Gary Kirsten resigned after just seven months in charge, citing irreconcilable differences with the PCB. In the interim, former fast bowler Aaqib Javed had been entrusted with the responsibility on a temporary basis, primarily to oversee preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
Mike Hesson, a respected figure in international cricket coaching circles, brings a wealth of experience to Pakistan’s coaching setup. He previously served as the head coach of the New Zealand national team from 2012 to 2018, during which he played a pivotal role in reshaping the Black Caps into one of the world’s most competitive sides. Hesson has also coached the Kenyan national team and is currently at the helm of Islamabad United in the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL), guiding them to the PSL 9 title earlier this year.
Welcoming Hesson to the role, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi expressed his confidence in the appointment.“I am pleased to announce the appointment of former New Zealand cricketer and renowned coach Mike Hesson as the white-ball head coach of the Pakistan men’s team,” he said.
“Mike brings with him a wealth of international experience and a proven track record of developing competitive teams. We are confident that his leadership and strategic insight will significantly contribute to the progress of Pakistan’s white-ball cricket. Welcome to the team, Mike!”
