PCB Launches Search for New Pakistan Head Coach, Former IPL Director Mike Hesson among Contenders
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is actively searching for a full-time head coach following the decision of interim coach Aaqib Javed not to continue in the role after the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Javed’s tenure ended after Pakistan, the host nation, failed to win a single match in the tournament and subsequently suffered heavy defeats in a T20 series in New Zealand.
Reports suggest that former Royal Challengers Bangalore director Mike Hesson is a leading candidate for the position. The New Zealander, who has previously coached the New Zealand national team and currently coaches Islamabad United, is being considered alongside former players Simon Katich and Luke Ronchi. However, all three had reportedly declined earlier approaches due to prior commitments. Negotiations with Hesson are ongoing, with the possibility of him joining if terms are agreeable.
The PCB is seeking a Level III qualified coach with at least 10 years of experience at national or domestic levels. This move comes amid a period of instability and underperformance for Pakistan cricket, marked by frequent coaching changes and disappointing results. Previous foreign coaches like Mickey Arthur, Grant Bradburn, Jason Gillespie, and Gary Kirsten have had challenging tenures with the team.
Meanwhile, Aaqib Javed is interested in transitioning to the role of Director of the High-Performance Centre, a position recently vacated, allowing him to remain involved in Pakistan cricket in a developmental capacity. The PCB aims to appoint a new permanent head coach before the next ICC World Test Championship cycle begins in August 2025.