Hesson named as Pakistan's white-ball head coach

Mike Hesson has been announced as head coach of the Pakistan white-ball team. The former New Zealand head coach, who is currently with PSL defending champions Islamabad United, will join the PCB from May 26, the day after the conclusion of the PSL 2025. The PCB have not officially revealed the length of Hesson's contract, but ESPNcricinfo understands he has been appointed on a two-year deal.

Hesson replaces Aqib Javed, who was interim head coach for five months, taking over after Gary Kirsten abruptly resigned six months into a two-year contract as head coach. Javed, meanwhile, has been appointed director of High Performance. ESPNcricinfo understands he will continue to remain in position as one of five voting members on the PCB selection committee, a position he continued to hold while serving as head coach.

"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," PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi said. "Mike brings with him a wealth of international experience and a proven track record of developing competitive sides. We look forward to his expertise and leadership in shaping the future of Pakistan's white-ball cricket. Welcome to the team, Mike!"

The PCB pursued Hesson as their first priority as soon as the position became vacant in April. His first assignment is likely to be a five-match T20I series against Bangladesh at home, should it go ahead according to schedule.

Hesson, 50, was appointed head coach of New Zealand in 2012, enjoying a highly successful six years in the position with the national side. Under Hesson, New Zealand became a dominant force at home and reached their first World Cup final in 2015, when they lost to Australia.

He was appointed director of cricket for Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the IPL in 2019, before they parted ways in 2023.

Pakistan do not currently have a red-ball coach, with no details on when one is expected to be appointed. Javed served as interim Test coach for Pakistan's tour of South Africa and home series against West Indies at the turn of the year after Jason Gillespie quit the role six months into his stint. Pakistan's next Test series comes at home against South Africa in October.