Mike Hesson Open to Permanent Test Coaching Role for Pakistan
Hesson's Interest in Permanent Test Role
Mike Hesson, the interim head coach for Pakistan's cricket team, has shown enthusiasm for taking on the Test coaching position permanently, in addition to his current responsibilities with the white-ball formats. Following Pakistan's eight-wicket loss to England in the third Test at Edgbaston, Hesson expressed his willingness to continue in this role during the post-match press conference, stating, "I'd be open to it, for sure."
Background on Hesson's Appointment
Hesson stepped into the red-ball coaching role after the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) dismissed Sarfaraz Ahmed, the previous head coach, due to the team's defeat at Lord's, which sealed their series loss against England. Initially, Hesson indicated that his position was temporary, but his recent remarks suggest a desire for a more long-term commitment.
Potential in Pakistan's Test Team
Hesson expressed optimism about the talent within Pakistan's Test squad, believing that with proper guidance and development, the team could improve significantly. He remarked, "I love Test cricket, and there's enough talent around the system in Pakistan that if we provide some good direction, we can make some strides going forward. It's not going to happen in a game or two, but there's some skill there I'd certainly be considering looking after."
Future Discussions with PCB
Despite his interest, Hesson acknowledged that the decision ultimately lies with the PCB, which has yet to finalize any coaching appointments. He mentioned, "I haven't even contemplated [a job offer] at this stage. I've got the Asian Games coming a week after I get back. That's my main focus in terms of the white ball. By the time that arrives, I'm sure we'll have some discussions about the Test team going forward. That's a discussion I'll have with the selectors."
England's Series Victory
Pakistan faced a clean sweep in the series against England, concluding with a loss in the third Test at Edgbaston by eight wickets. England successfully chased down a target of 130, finishing at 130/2, with Joe Root scoring an unbeaten 62 and Jordan Cox contributing 59. Pakistan, after a first-innings total of 133, rebounded with a strong second innings of 449, featuring notable performances from Shan Masood (95), Babar Azam (76), and debutant Razaullah (81). England had set a formidable first-innings score of 453, with key contributions from Harry Brook (75), Jamie Smith (69), Dan Lawrence (65), Emilio Gay (60), and Ollie Robinson (50). This victory marked England's 3-0 series triumph, following earlier wins at Headingley and Lord's.