LAHORE, Tuesday, May 13, 2025 (WNP): The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Tuesday announced two major appointments as part of its ongoing overhaul of the national cricket structure—former Test fast bowler Aqib Javed has been named Director High Performance, while seasoned New Zealand coach Mike Hesson has been appointed Head Coach of the Pakistan Men’s white-ball teams.

Aqib Javed, who represented Pakistan in 22 Tests and 163 One Day Internationals between 1988 and 1998, brings a wealth of on-field and coaching experience to the role. He has previously served as the interim head coach of the national team and has been involved in various coaching assignments at domestic and international levels.

In a statement, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi welcomed Aqib’s appointment, terming it a strategic move aimed at bolstering Pakistan’s cricketing infrastructure.

“To strengthen our cricket infrastructure, we are pleased to welcome Aqib Javed as the Director of High Performance,” said Naqvi. “His appointment, alongside Mike Hesson as the white-ball head coach, marks a significant step forward in our strategic vision for Pakistan cricket. Together, their expertise and leadership will play a pivotal role in the development, evolution, and success of our national setup.”

The PCB also confirmed the appointment of Mike Hesson as the head coach for Pakistan’s white-ball teams (ODIs and T20Is). Hesson will formally assume his responsibilities on May 26, immediately after the conclusion of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season 10 final, scheduled for May 25.

The role had remained vacant following Pakistan’s tour of New Zealand in April. The PCB stated that Hesson was selected after a comprehensive evaluation of numerous applicants.

A highly respected figure in international coaching, Hesson is best known for his successful tenure with the New Zealand men’s team from 2012 to 2018, during which he led them to the final of the 2015 ICC Men’s ODI World Cup. He has also coached Kenya and held several key roles in domestic and international cricket.

Since 2023, Hesson has served as head coach of PSL franchise Islamabad United, guiding them to victory in the ninth edition of the league earlier this year.

Chairman Mohsin Naqvi praised the appointment, stating, “I am pleased to announce the appointment of former New Zealand cricketer and renowned coach Mike Hesson as the white-ball head coach of the Pakistan men’s team. Mike brings with him a wealth of international experience and a proven track record of developing competitive sides. We look forward to his expertise and leadership in shaping the future of Pakistan’s white-ball cricket. Welcome to the team, Mike!”

The dual appointments are being seen as a major step in the PCB’s efforts to modernize the cricketing framework and build a competitive national side ahead of upcoming international assignments, including the ICC T20 World Cup later this year.