Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi has reportedly approved an extension for Mike Hesson to continue as the national team’s interim Test head coach. According to local media, the New Zealander will guide Pakistan during its upcoming two-match Test series against Sri Lanka next month.
Pakistan’s red-ball team is looking to recover from a disappointing run in the longest format. The PCB made major changes to the coaching staff and playing squad following the defeat to England at Lord’s, but Pakistan lost the final Test and the series 0-3.
Mike Hesson Takes Charge After Pakistan’s Coaching Reshuffle
Mike Hesson took over as Pakistan’s interim Test coach ahead of the third Test against England. The PCB removed former Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed from the head coach position and relieved bowling coach Umar Gul of his duties.
The board also released seven players from the squad and brought in seven replacements ahead of the final Test. These changes followed Pakistan’s heavy defeat at Lord’s as the board sought to overhaul the team’s approach.
Hesson already serves as Pakistan’s white-ball head coach and has overseen progress in the ODI and T20I teams, although he is yet to win major silverware with them. The 51-year-old has also earned strong backing within the PCB and reportedly played a key role in Shaun Tait’s return as bowling coach.
Mike Hesson Open To Becoming Pakistan’s Permanent Test Coach
Mike Hesson recently expressed his willingness to take charge of Pakistan’s Test team on a permanent basis, citing the talent available in the country and the potential for improvement under the right direction.
“I’d be open to it for sure. I love Test cricket, and I think there’s enough talent within the system in Pakistan that, if we can provide some good direction, we can make some strides forward,” Hesson said.
“It’s certainly not going to happen in a game or two, but I think there’s some skill there that I’d certainly consider looking after,” he added.
“I haven’t even contemplated that at this stage. I’ve got the Asian Games coming up, and that’s my main focus in terms of white-ball cricket. By the time that arrives, I’m sure we will have had some discussions about the Test team going forward,” he stated.
Although the PCB has yet to formally confirm his long-term future, the reported extension would give Mike Hesson another opportunity to lead the Test side. His immediate focus, however, remains on Pakistan’s upcoming white-ball commitments.
Pakistan Prepare For Crucial Sri Lanka Test Series
Pakistan’s two-match Test series against Sri Lanka will be an important part of their WTC 2025–27 campaign. The team currently sits at the bottom of the standings with five points and a points percentage (PCT) of 4.63, leaving it under pressure to improve its results.
The opening Test will take place at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium from November 9 to 13. The teams will then move to Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium for the second Test, scheduled from November 17 to 21.
Pakistan will aim to make the most of home conditions and build greater consistency in the longest format. The Sri Lanka series will provide another opportunity for the team to improve its results and revive its WTC campaign.
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