Pakistan’s white-ball head coach Mike Hesson has departed for New Zealand after wrapping up what has been one of the most successful home seasons for the Pakistan men’s cricket team in recent years. Hesson left on Sunday, shortly after Pakistan lifted the T20I tri-series trophy, defeating Sri Lanka in the final on Saturday.

A Remarkable Home Season for the Green Shirts

Pakistan’s packed home season featured a full tour by South Africa, which included

• Two Test matches
• Three ODIs
• Three T20Is

The Test series ended in a 1-1 draw, but Pakistan dominated both the limited-overs formats, clinching the ODI and T20I series with impressive consistency and teamwork.

Following the South Africa tour, Pakistan hosted Sri Lanka for a three-match ODI series, completing a commanding 3-0 clean sweep. The side then carried its momentum into the T20I tri-series involving Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe, eventually emerging champions in front of an electric home crowd.

Across the entire home season, Pakistan lost only three matches—one ODI and two T20Is—while winning all four series, an achievement that highlights the team’s growth and stability under Hesson’s guidance.

Hesson Shares an Emotional Note Before Departure

Before beginning his journey back to New Zealand, Mike Hesson expressed his satisfaction and gratitude in a heartfelt social media post. Sharing a photo, he wrote:

“This is the face of a tired but happy man. Tonight I start my long journey home back to New Zealand for a few weeks’ break. Missing my family and some warm summer weather.”

He added:

“So delighted to have finished the season with a win, well played boys.”

His message reflects both the exhaustion of a long season and the pride he feels in the team’s performance.

Next Up: Pakistan’s Tour of Sri Lanka

Pakistan’s next international assignment is a three-match T20I series in Sri Lanka, scheduled for January 2026. All matches will be played at the iconic Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium.

Tentative Schedule

• 1st T20I: 8 January 2026 – Dambulla
• 2nd T20I: 10 January 2026 – Dambulla
• 3rd T20I: 12 January 2026 – Dambulla

2026 T20 World Cup Ahead

The upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 will be jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8. Under the Hybrid Model, Pakistan are set to play all their matches in Sri Lanka, a decision made to ensure smooth participation amid political and logistical considerations.

With a successful home season complete and confidence running high, Pakistan now look ahead to overseas challenges with renewed belief and momentum.