Mike Hesson Open To Taking Over As Pakistan Head Coach In Tests: "We Can Provide Good Direction"

Hesson Open to Keeping Pakistan Test reins

A gentle moment of reflection before I share today's tune. The rhythm of Test cricket has a way of calling to those who listen—Mike Hesson seems to hear it clearly.

After Pakistan's third Test bow to England at Edgbaston (8 wkts), the interim redball coach opened the door to making his role permanent. "I'd be open to it, for sure," he told the press, echoing the patience of a musician who knows a great composition takes more than a few measures.

Hesson stepped into the redball setup after PCB parted ways with Sarfaraz Ahmed following the Lord's defeat. Though he initially framed this as a temporary arrangement, his latest words suggest a deeper interest. He spoke of the talent within Pakistan's system, comparing their growth to a slow alap—the unhurried opening of a raga that cannot be rushed. "If we provide some good direction, we can make some strides," he said, noting the work lies ahead, not in "a game or two."

That decision, however, rests beyond his hands. With the Asian Games a week away, white ball remains his focus. "I haven't even contemplated a job offer," Hesson admitted. Discussions with the selectors await.

Meanwhile, England completed a clean 3-0 sweep. Chasing just 130, they reached 130/2 with Joe Root (62*) and Jordan Cox (59) anchoring the chase. Pakistan had fought back valiantly after being bundled out for 133, posting 449 in their second Inn—Shan Masood (95), Babar Azam (76), and debutant Razaullah (81) among the contributors, with a 121-run ninth-wicket stand. England's first-innings 453 had given them a commanding lead.

A series lost, but as any artist knows, the next movement is never written until the last note fades.

Source: NDTV Sports