Mike Hesson parts way with Kings XI Punjab, speculation grows on India coach job

Mike Hesson, who is best remembered for turning around New Zealand's cricketing fortunes in six years, has parted ways with the Kings XI Punjab franchise. Hesson, who helped New Zealand reach the final of the ICC Cricket World Cup for the first time during the 2015 edition, was part of the Kings XI Punjab franchise for just one year. Although the reasons for his departure are unknown, there are strong indications that he is in the race for the post of head coach in both India and Pakistan.

There are strong reports that Ravi Shastri could once again be at the helm after the end of the West Indies tour as he has strong backing from the Indian cricket team skipper Virat Kohli. Other reports in New Zealand reported that Hesson has applied for the top job in both India and Pakistan. Former Australian all-rounder Tom Moody is one of the big international names in a long list of applications the BCCI has received for the chief coach's job in India.

In a statement on his Twitter handle, Hesson said, "I thoroughly enjoyed my time with the Kings XI franchise and wish to thank them for the season I had in charge. Whilst disappointed not to be able to build on the work we did this year, I'm sure success isn't too far away for them. I wish them all the best for the future," Hesson said.

A message from me regarding @lionsdenkxip pic.twitter.com/xOGfEw4LBq

— Mike Hesson (@CoachHesson) August 7, 2019

India's coach will be chosen by a three-member Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) headed by the legendary Kapil Dev, ex-coach Anshuman Gaekwad and former India women's captain Shantha Rangaswamy. The current support staff comprising incumbent head coach Ravi Shastri, bowling coach Bharat Arun, batting coach Sanjay Bangar and fielding coach R Sridhar were given a 45-day extension following the World Cup, covering the West Indies tour from August 3 to September 3. The BCCI advertised the posts after India's World Cup semifinal defeat to New Zealand.

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HIGHLIGHTS

• India lost in the semi-final of 2019 World Cup to New Zealand.
• Ravi Shastri has gotten an extension as coach until the end of West Indies tour.
• Mike Hesson was at the helm of Kings XI Punjab for just one year.