Lahore, April 22, 2025: Former New Zealand head coach Mike Hesson has emerged as the top contender to take over as the head coach of the Pakistan men’s cricket team, potentially replacing interim coach Aqib Javed.
Hesson, currently leading Islamabad United in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), has reportedly re-entered talks with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) after previously declining the role due to prior commitments. The board is believed to favor a foreign appointment, in line with its recent hiring strategy.
While former Pakistan coach Saqlain Mushtaq was also under consideration, insiders indicate Hesson has now become the leading candidate. The PCB has set a May 4 deadline for coaching applications, requiring candidates to possess at least a Level Three coaching certification.
With a coaching career spanning more than a decade, Hesson guided New Zealand from 2012 to 2018, helping build one of the most consistent teams of the era. He also brings franchise-level experience from the IPL and PSL, making him a seasoned figure in high-pressure environments.
The Pakistan coaching setup has seen significant turnover in recent months. Jason Gillespie, appointed as Test coach in April 2024, resigned abruptly in December following a turbulent stint. Before that, Gary Kirsten quit as white-ball coach in October 2024, just six months into his role, reportedly due to internal rifts.
In the wake of these exits, Aqib Javed was named interim white-ball coach. Though his tenure was initially meant to last until the 2025 Champions Trophy, it was extended to include Pakistan’s recent white-ball tour of New Zealand, which featured a five-match T20I series and three ODIs.
Hesson’s potential appointment is seen as part of the PCB’s efforts to restore stability and strategic direction ahead of key international assignments.
