Pakistan white-ball head coach Mike Hesson has reportedly been shortlisted for the vacant England Test coaching role. According to reports in the English media, the former New Zealand coach is among the candidates being considered by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) to replace Brendon McCullum.
This development comes at a crucial time for Pakistan cricket. Hesson takes charge of Pakistan’s white-ball teams in May 2025 and any move to the England Test team could disrupt the long-term plans of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) ahead of a busy international schedule and major ICC tournaments.
Mike Hesson’s England link raises new questions for PCB
According to Daily Mail, England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has shortlisted nine candidates Will replace Brendon McCullum as England’s Test head coach. Pakistan white-ball head coach Mike Hesson is one of the names being considered, creating uncertainty over his future with the Pakistan team and the development has left the PCB disappointed.
Hesson is the only coach in the reported shortlist who is currently leading an international team. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) appointed the former New Zealand coach in May 2025 to bring stability to the white-ball setup after several coaching changes in recent years.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi recently held meetings with Hesson, High Performance Director Aaqib Javed and other senior officials to strengthen Pakistan’s cricket structure. If Hesson accepts the England role, the PCB will be forced to look for another head coach.
Mike Hesson’s coaching record makes him a strong candidate
Mike Hesson is one of the most experienced coaches on its reported shortlist. The former New Zealand head coach led the Black Caps from 2012 to 2018, helping the team become one of the strongest teams in international cricket.
During his time with New Zealand, Hesson worked closely with Brendon McCullum and was instrumental in building an aggressive and disciplined team. Their partnership helped New Zealand reach the 2015 ODI World Cup final and established the team’s modern playing style.
Hesson has also had success in franchise cricket. He previously served as Director of Cricket at Royal Challengers Bangalore in the IPL, led Islamabad United to the Pakistan Super League title and now leads Pakistan’s white-ball teams.
ECB continues search for Brendon McCullum’s successor
The ECB has begun the search for a new Test coach after parting ways with Brendon McCullum following England’s 2-1 home Test series defeat to New Zealand. With Ben Stokes also retiring from Test cricket, the board wants an experienced coach to rebuild the team ahead of the 2027 Ashes.
Former England coach Andy Flower and former Australia coach Justin Langer are reportedly the main contenders for the role. However, Hesson remains a strong option due to his success in both international and franchise cricket.
If the ECB decides to approach Hesson, the Pakistan Cricket Board may face a difficult situation. Losing its white-ball head coach after being appointed last year will force the PCB to launch another coaching search ahead of a busy international schedule.
