Lahore, October 14,2026: Pakistan’s white-ball head coach Mike Hesson is likely to remain in charge of the national Test team for the upcoming two-match series against Sri Lanka, following his interim appointment during the recent series against England.
Hesson was given temporary responsibility for the red-ball side ahead of the third and final Test against England after the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) revamped the coaching setup following a heavy defeat in the second Test at Lord’s.
The 51-year-old New Zealander took over after Sarfaraz Ahmed was removed as Test head coach, while bowling coach Umar Gul was also relieved of his duties as part of the reshuffle.
At a post-match press conference, Hesson was asked whether he would consider continuing as Pakistan’s Test coach beyond his interim stint.
He expressed willingness to take on the role, citing his passion for Test cricket and confidence in the talent available within Pakistan’s cricket system.
“I’d be open to it for sure. I love Test cricket, and I think there’s enough talent within the system in Pakistan that, if we can provide some good direction, we can make some strides forward,” Hesson said.
He acknowledged that improvement would take time, adding that progress was unlikely to come within just one or two matches.
The PCB had also made significant changes to Pakistan’s Test squad following the Lord’s defeat, releasing seven players and bringing in an equal number of replacements ahead of the third Test against England.
Hesson subsequently took charge of the team on an interim basis while continuing his regular responsibilities as Pakistan’s white-ball head coach.
The upcoming two-match series against Sri Lanka will form part of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025–27.
The first Test is scheduled to be played at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium from November 9 to 13, while the second will take place at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium from November 17 to 21.
