Cricket: Hesson re-signs with Black Caps

Mike Hesson
Mike Hesson
It would have been a no-brainer if it did not mean many, many more nights away from his family.

But once his whanau was on board Black Caps coach Mike Hesson said the decision to sign up until after the 2019 World Cup was "a very easy decision''.

He will be joined by batting coach Craig McMillan, manager Mike Sandle and strength and conditioning coach Chris Donaldson.

The foursome have re-committed and are looking forward to the challenge of helping the Black Caps scale the world rankings.

"From a cricketing point of view it was a very easy decision,'' Hesson said.

"It is something I'm obviously highly motivated to do but it was difficult from a family point of view. I certainly needed Kate's support to re-sign and thankfully [my wife] is very supportive.''

There are two other key members of the family to consider as well. Daughters Holly (9) and Charlie (6) understand what it means when dad goes away to work now.

It tugs at the heartstrings.

"Holly is not as supportive as you would like but she understands. You have to enjoy your time at home, don't you?''

It was still a dream job and a great time to be involved, Hesson said.

The Black Caps are the No1-ranked T20 side and the No2 one-day side.

Their test ranking of No5 is very respectable and the goal is to build on the gains the team has made during Hesson's watch.

"We've got a new leader in Kane [Williamson] and a new group of leaders on the field. The support staff is a really consistent and stable group and it is an exciting time. There are a lot of key tours coming up.

"Test cricket is incredibly important to us moving forward, and also with the Champions Trophy and the next World Cup the focus as well. I'm certainly keen to be part of that.''

Hesson has been in the role four years in July and will have had the top job seven years when his contract expires. It is a long stint in what is a demanding job.

"That is why you need to consider whether you are still able to offer something. I think seven years will be enough for me and I also think it will be enough for the group. They will need a different voice by that stage, as well.''

Chief executive of New Zealand Cricket David White praised the emergence and potential of McMillan, described Sandle and Donaldson as "leaders in their field''.

But he reserved special comment for Hesson.

"Mike's the most successful coach in New Zealand cricket history and, in my opinion, the best selector we've ever had,'' he said.

"To have him committed to the Black Caps until after the next world cup is great news for all concerned.''

The next assignments for the Black Caps are the tours of Zimbabwe and South Africa, in July and August.

Add a Comment

OUTSTREAM