Mike Hesson steps down as Kings XI Punjab coach

Mike Hesson has parted ways with Kings XI Punjab after a ten-month tenure as coach of the IPL franchise.

Hesson announced his decision to step down through a post on Twitter on Thursday.

"I thoroughly enjoyed my time at the Kings XI franchise," his tweet said, "and wish to thank them for the season I had in charge. Whilst disappointed not to be able to build on the work we did this year, I'm sure success isn't too far away for them. I wish them all the best for the future."

A message from me regarding @lionsdenkxip pic.twitter.com/xOGfEw4LBq

— Mike Hesson (@CoachHesson) August 7, 2019

Hesson's departure from the IPL comes at a time of significant coaching changes at the international level in the aftermath of the men's World Cup.

Hesson, who had coached New Zealand between 2012 and 2018, replaced Australian Brad Hodge as Kings XI coach in October last year. He took up the IPL role five months after stepping down as New Zealand coach, and his stint with Kings XI was his first in a T20 franchise league. During his tenure, Kings XI finished sixth in IPL 2019, winning six of their 14 games, with R Ashwin as captain.

Hesson had quit as New Zealand coach less than a year before the 2019 World Cup, with a view to taking a "break from the rigours of international cricket". Under him, New Zealand became a dominant Test team and also made the World Cup final in 2015. In 59 T20Is under Hesson, New Zealand won 30 and lost 24.