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Pakistan Welcomes New Coaching Staff After Ex-RCB Director Mike Hesson Takes Leadership

Akshita Patel

Mike Hesson roped in as Pakistan's head coach [Source: @dhillow_/X.com]Mike Hesson roped in as Pakistan's head coach [Source: @dhillow_/X.com]

The Pakistan national cricket team has undergone a major transformation in its coaching staff ahead of the new season. The PCB has made some bold moves by bringing in experienced international coaches to improve the team's performance after a string of disappointing results and growing pressure from fans and cricket experts.

Last year, Gary Kirsten and Jason Gillespie resigned as white-ball and red-ball coaches, respectively, after a fallout with PCB leadership. Key selector Aaqib Javed took over as interim coach to stabilise things.

However, ahead of the new season, PCB announced a brand new coaching staff, with a blend of international and local mentors.

Mike Hesson – The New Head Coach

Mike Hesson – The New Head Coach [Source: @Adityakrsaha/X.com]Mike Hesson – The New Head Coach [Source: @Adityakrsaha/X.com]

The biggest announcement is the appointment of Mike Hesson as Pakistan’s new white-ball head coach. He previously served as head coach of New Zealand, where he was praised for building a competitive team that reached the 2015 World Cup final. Hesson has also coached Kenya at the international level and is currently serving as the head coach of Islamabad United in the PSL. Interestingly, Hesson was also associated with RCB in IPL until his exit a couple of years ago.

Ashley Noffke – Bowling Coach

Ashley Noffke – Bowling Coach [Source: @dhillow_/X.com]Ashley Noffke – Bowling Coach [Source: @dhillow_/X.com]

In another key move, Ashley Noffke has been named Pakistan's new bowling coach. The former Australian fast bowler has coaching experience with several domestic teams in Australia and has been part of the coaching setup for Brisbane Heat in the Big Bash League. With Pakistan always having exciting pace talent, Noffke’s arrival could help turn young bowlers into world-class performers.

Hanif Malik – Batting Coach

Hanif Malik – Batting Coach [Source: @CallMeSheri1/X.com]Hanif Malik – Batting Coach [Source: @CallMeSheri1/X.com]

The PCB has also appointed Hanif Malik as the team’s new batting coach. Malik is a well-respected coach in Pakistan’s domestic circuit. He has worked with many young batters and is known for his technical approach. With Pakistan’s batting lineup struggling with inconsistency in recent times, Malik’s job will be to help players build confidence and improve their shot selection, especially in overseas conditions.

As part of these changes, Azhar Mahmood, who was working as the assistant coach, has been removed from his role. Mahmood, a former Pakistan all-rounder, had been with the team for several years in various coaching capacities. While he had some success during his time, the PCB seems to be moving in a different direction under new leadership.