Pakistan’s head coach Mike Hesson, center, raises a hand while speaking to the team. (AP Photo)
But after Pakistan’s eight-wicket defeat at Edgbaston completed England’s 3-0 series sweep, Hesson suggested he sees enough potential in the squad to consider taking on the responsibility permanently.
Mike Hesson has opened the door to a permanent role as Pakistan’s Test coach after stepping in for the third Test in the team’s 0-3 series whitewash against England, while Shaheen Shah Afridi has made his own intentions clear by declaring that red-ball cricket remains his “first priority”. “I’d be open to it, for sure,” Hesson said at the post-match press conference. Hesson said Pakistan have enough ability within their Test system to make progress, although he acknowledged that rebuilding the side would require time and direction. It’s not going to happen in a game or two, but there’s some skill there I’d certainly be considering looking after,” he said. That’s a discussion I’ll have with the selectors,” he said.
Hesson, who was handed interim charge of Pakistan’s Test side after the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) removed Sarfaraz Ahmed following the defeat at Lord’s, admitted he would be interested in continuing with the red-ball setup. The New Zealander had initially made it clear that his Test coaching assignment was temporary. “I love Test cricket, and there’s enough talent around the system in Pakistan that if we provide some good direction, we can make some strides going forward. “I haven’t even contemplated [a job offer] at this stage. I’ve got the Asian Games coming a week after I get back. That’s my main focus in terms of the white ball. By the time that arrives, I’m sure we’ll have some discussions about the Test team going forward.
