ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is actively searching for a permanent head coach to replace interim coach Aqib Javed, whose contract concluded following Pakistan’s disappointing performance in the ICC Champions Trophy this February.
According to media reports, Islamabad United coach Mike Hesson has emerged as a frontrunner for the role of head coach of the Pakistan national team.
Hesson, who coached New Zealand between 2012 and 2018 and led them to the 2015 World Cup final, is widely respected for his tactical expertise.
Currently serving as head coach of Islamabad United in the Pakistan Super League (PSL 2025), the 50-year-old has publicly commended players such as Imad Wasim and Shadab Khan—going so far as to call Khan’s omission from the national squad a “disgrace.”
Winless ICC Champions Trophy campaign
The PCB’s search gained momentum after Javed’s tenure ended in the wake of a winless group stage campaign at the Champions Trophy.
While Saqlain Mushtaq was reportedly under consideration, Hesson’s name has gained increasing support due to his established track record and past interest shown by the PCB in 2019 and 2024.
However, he previously declined offers due to prior commitments, and it remains unclear whether he is currently available.
The potential appointment has sparked mixed reactions among fans and analysts.
While some fans have lauded Hesson’s strategic credentials, others remain sceptical, questioning the PCB’s management of overseas coaching appointments in light of the brief tenures of Jason Gillespie and Gary Kirsten in 2024.
The PCB is keen to finalise the head coach position ahead of Pakistan’s white-ball tour of New Zealand, which begins on 16 March 2026.
Although Hesson has not made any public statements, sources indicate that the PCB is likely to make a formal approach shortly.
