BLACKCAPS Head Coach Mike Hesson has extended his contract with New Zealand Cricket for two years post next year’s ICC Cricket World Cup.
The 39-year-old coached the national side to series wins over India and the West Indies at home last summer and recently added a rare Test series victory in the West Indies to his achievements in the top coaching role.
NZC Chief Executive David White says he is delighted that Hesson has chosen to stay on as head coach and selector post CWC 2015.
“It’s great news for the players and for the sport to have consistency in this role for our flagship team for nearly five years.”
Mike Hesson and Brendon McCullum after winning the ANZ ODI Trophy 4-0 v India earlier this year.
White adds that Hesson has formed a formidable partnership with captain Brendon McCullum, and the pair now await their biggest opportunity at the helm of our national side – CWC 2015 at home in February and March 2015.
“How the team performed at home over the summer against both the West Indies and India showed that both Mike and Brendon have built a side capable of knocking over anyone on their day.”
Hesson, who coached Otago for six years and also had a stint with the Kenyan national side, says he is keen to continue to develop the young players who are coming through to the top level.
“It’s a really exciting time for the sport with the world cup at home, our senior players performing well and a promising group of youngsters who are all fighting for world cup spots.”
Mike Hesson on the training field.
Hesson started the role in July 2012 and his original contract would have ended on 30 April 2015. It has now been extended until the same date in 2017.
NZC expect to make an announcement on the BLACKCAPS batting coach in the next few days.
