Mike Hesson stepped down as head coach of Kings XI Punjab on Thursday after spending just one season with Mohali-based Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise.
“I thoroughly enjoyed my time with the Kings XI franchise and wish to thank them for the season I had in charge,” the Kiwi wrote in a farewell message on Twitter.
“Whilst disappointed not to be able to build on the work we did this year, I’m sure success isn’t too far away for them. I wish them all the best for the future,” he added.
Under Hesson, Kings XI Punjab finished sixth in the 2019 edition of the IPL after registering six wins and eight losses in their 14 matches.
While no reasons were given for the Kiwi’s abrupt departure, it is speculated that he is currently in contention for the head coach positions of India, Pakistan as well as Bangladesh.
A message from me regarding @lionsdenkxip pic.twitter.com/xOGfEw4LBq
— Mike Hesson (@CoachHesson) August 7, 2019
According to local media reports in New Zealand, Hesson is a favourite to land the Bangladesh top job while he has sent in his applications for the India and Pakistan hot seats.
The 44-year-old had a strong six-year tenure with the Black Caps and was at the helm of the side when they finished runners-up in the 2015 ICC World Cup.
Hesson is among a three-man shortlist currently being considered for the Bangladesh role with South Africa’s Russell Domingo and Paul Farbrace also in the fray.
India, meanwhile, are in the process of recruiting a new coach as well following the completion of Ravi Shastri’s tenure. Shastri’s name has been has been automatically included in the shortlist for the new coach although other contenders like Tom Moody and Hesson are also reportedly in the running.
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had recently announced that Mickey Arthur’s contract as head coach will not be renewed and stuff.co.nz reports that Hesson has already been approached as a potential replacement. The PCB has started its process to recruit the next coach with advertisements for the same being sent out on Friday.
With coaching positions currently open for all subcontinent sides, Hesson could definitely be a man in demand in the coming few days.
