Kenya coach Mike Hesson steps down

Mike Hesson has stepped down as Kenya's national coach, citing security issues that have affected his family. Hesson, the former Otago Volts and New Zealand A coach, took over as Kenya coach in July 2011 for a two-year term but has resigned before his tenure expired.

"It is a very difficult decision we as a family have had to make but sadly we have been directly and indirectly affected by a number of security related incidents in recent weeks and my family has to come first," he said in a release issued by Cricket Kenya.

"I want to stress that this has absolutely nothing to do with any issues relating to my role as National coach and is not cricket related in any way. This is purely a decision about the safety of my family and quality of life. Whilst arrangements are being made for my wife and children to return to New Zealand as soon as possible, I will remain behind to complete any imminent national team engagements."

Hesson walked into the Kenyan set-up amid a pay dispute between the players and the board and had to act as mediator between the two sides. During his stint, Kenya played four ODIs, losing three and winning one, and lost two of their three Intercontinental Cup matches.

Cricket Kenya chief executive Tom Sears said: "This is obviously an extremely sad situation but Cricket Kenya understand the reasoning behind Mike's decision and respect his wishes. I know he has enjoyed his role with the National squad and was keen to continue and turn around results.

"He has built an excellent relationship with the squad and I know they will be very sorry to see him leave."

Sears, himself, will step down as CEO, effective end-June.