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Former RCB Director Mike Hesson Named Islamabad United Head Coach For PSL 2024

image-loqosbipMike Hesson [X.com]

Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise Islamabad United (IU) have appointed former New Zealand coach Mike Hesson as their new head coach for the upcoming season.

Hesson, who until IPL 2023 worked with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) as director of cricket, takes over from former Pakistan all-rounder Azhar Mahmood. Hesson coached the Black Caps from 2012 to 2015 before joining the RCB in 2019.

United are a two-time PSL-winning franchise (2016 and 2018); however, they have lost their sheen since their last title win and have seen multiple coaches such as Misbah-ul-Haq, Johan Botha, and Mahmood fail to win an elusive third title.

Late Dean Jones won both their PSL titles as head coach. As quoted by ESPNcricinfo, Hesson expressed excitement over joining Islamabad.

Here's what Hesson said

"I am delighted to be a part of Islamabad United. The professional, modern, and dimagh se (mindful) approach associated with the franchise resonates strongly with me. I am also impressed with United's strategy built around the principle of 4 Es - Excellence, Empowerment, Education and Environment. I look forward to working with the talented players and staff to build a successful team and deliver exciting cricket to the fans."

United's owner Ali Naqvi showcased thrill in adding Hesson to the setup, and lauded the new coach for work in other leagues. 

"Mike is very strategic and analytical on his approach, has proven skills of creating new and modern ways of playing - something his NZ stint demonstrates - and is a great people-manager," he said.

The PSL will commence sometime in February 2024, and will go on until March.