Michael Hesson quits as coach of New Zealand cricket team

Michael Hesson quits as coach of New Zealand cricket team

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Michael Hesson has stepped down as head coach of the New Zealand cricket team after a period of almost six years in charge of the Black Caps. Under Hesson’s tutelage, the New Zealand team enjoyed one of the most successful records in the sport of cricket on the international stage.

Former New Zealand head coach Michael Hesson will go down as one of the most successful coaches in the country’s history after a period of six years in-charge of the national team. Hesson’s style of play and his focus on playing the game in a fair manner was acknowledged and appreciated by fans and critics alike the world over.

However, Hesson stepped down as coach of the national team with a year still left on his current contract. The 43-year old cited family issues as one of the primary reasons for his surprise decision. Hesson also said the demands of international cricket had influenced his decision and he wants to spend more time with his wife and two daughters. 

"This job requires 100 percent commitment and is all consuming," Hesson said. "I know what's required over the next 12 months but, if I'm honest, I don't feel I have the capacity to give the job what it deserves," Hesson told AP.

Despite New Zealand cricket CEO David White’s insistence that Hesson should stay, Hesson opted against the same as he looked to bond with his family.

"I tried to persuade him to stay on for another 12 months but his mind was made up. We understand his position.

"Hesson has more than realized the potential we saw in him back in 2012 and has grown into one of the most respected coaches on the international circuit," White said. "At the same time, he's carried a torch for coaches in all sports, demonstrating through his success that top-level coaching is not exclusively or necessarily the domain of former star players." White said

Hesson formed a highly successful partnership with Kiwi opener Brendon McCullum ever since he took control of the national team back in 2012. Under his tutelage, the black caps won 21, drew 13 and lost 19 of their 53 Tests over a period of six years. In the limited-overs formats, the New Zealanders had a 65-46 win-loss record in 119 ODIS, with eight ties or no-results, and won 30 and lost 24 in Twenty20 internationals, with five ties or no results.

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