Mike Hesson set to stay on as Pakistan white-ball coach until end of contract

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan white-ball head coach Mike Hesson is expected to see out his current contract with the national team and is not looking to move into England’s Test set-up, according to people close to the matter.

Recent British media reports had listed Hesson among possible candidates to replace Brendon McCullum after his dismissal as England Test coach. However, sources close to Hesson have said he is not interested in taking up that position and remains committed to Pakistan. His current deal runs until next year, and he will continue with the side through that period.

The 2027 ODI World Cup remains on the horizon as part of Pakistan’s planning, with Hesson still involved despite pressure on his role after the T20 World Cup. He retained his position, and is now said to be working closely with Director of High Performance and selector Aaqib Javed as both look to lift the team’s results. The prolonged white-ball training camp was described as part of that effort.

Excluding ICC tournaments, Hesson’s record as Pakistan coach has been described as strong. Pakistan’s next white-ball assignment is a three-match T20 series against Sri Lanka in October.

Captaincy discussion continues

Salman Ali Agha may find it difficult to continue as captain because the team has not managed sustained success under his leadership. Discussions over a possible replacement are continuing, although officials are not said to be rushing a decision given the time remaining before the next series.

Test team schedule

Separately, Pakistan’s Test side, coached by SarfarazAhmed, is currently in the West Indies, where a two-match series is due to begin on July 25. After that tour, the team is scheduled to play three Tests in England.

Hesson’s name had also featured in a British newspaper report on Tuesday about England’s coaching shortlist following McCullum’s exit. McCullum had taken over in May 2022 and was removed by the England and Wales Cricket Board after England’s 2-1 home series defeat to New Zealand, a series that also ended with captain Ben Stokes retiring from international cricket.