Pakistan’s new white-ball head coach Mike Hesson appeared in a recent interview on the PCB Podcast, and shared his coaching philosophy and vision for the team’s future.
Speaking candidly with former Test cricketer Bazid Khan, Hesson discussed his approach to player development, team culture, and what he hopes to achieve during his tenure with the Pakistan national team.
Hesson, who brings years of experience from previous coaching roles, including the New Zealand cricket team, highlighted that his focus as a coach isn’t on dictating how players should perform but rather on maximising their individual talents.
“Coaching is about trying to maximise talent. It’s not necessarily about telling them about the greater things that I have played during my time,” Hesson said.
He also emphasised the importance of building strong relationships with players.
“Once you understand a player’s journey, you can add value,” he explained, noting that coaching is a more holistic approach rather than a one-size-fits-all model.
His strategy revolves around understanding each player’s background, what motivates them, and their specific goals before offering tailored guidance.
For Hesson, communication plays a pivotal role. “Players deserve the right to know what's expected of them,” he added, stressing that technical coaching and constant observation are key to his method.
“It's about observing a player first before deciding when to intervene,” he said.
A significant part of Hesson’s plan involves working closely with Pakistan’s domestic circuit to spot talent. He noted the importance of developing clear pathways for emerging players.
“There’ll be identified groups of players where I’ll be keen to go and have a look, talk, and meet players,” he said. This will ensure that players are well-trained, versatile, and ready to step up when called upon for national duties.
Looking ahead, Hesson’s long-term goal is to leave a legacy that extends beyond immediate results. “I would like the Pakistan public to say, ‘This is a great team to watch,’” he reflected.
In the years to come, Hesson hopes to lay a foundation for success that will endure after his departure, ensuring a smooth succession for future coaches.
“If when you leave, things fall over, then you haven’t done a great job,” he concluded, adding that his focus is on building a sustainable model.
Hesson’s approach appears to be driven by a strong sense of long-term planning, aiming to not only improve the current team but also shape Pakistan’s cricketing future for years to come.
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