IPL 2019: Kings XI Punjab appoint Mike Hesson as head coach

Former New Zealand coach Mike Hesson has been appointed as the head coach on a two-year contract for franchise Kings XI Punjab, replacing Australia’s Brad Hodge

For franchise Kings XI Punjab in the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL), Former New Zealand coach Mike Hesson has been appointed as the head coach on a two-year contract, replacing Australia’s Brad Hodge. Punjab's consistent failure in Season 11 of the much popular tournament seems to be the reason for replacing Hodge. Earlier, the 43-year-old was signed by the franchise for three years. Hesson has no experience of playing any first-class cricket but has coached a national team.

Hesson stepped down as New Zealand coach in June with less than a year to go for the 2019 World Cup in England, saying "he wanted a break from the rigours of international cricket".

KXIP CEO Satish Menon confirmed Hesson's appointment. "We were in talks with many reputed coaches before zeroing on Hesson. He has been appointed on a two-year contract," Menon told PTI.

Nava Season ✅
Nava Coach ✅
Ek Navi Umang ✅

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New Season ✅
New Coach ✅
Renewed Passion ✅

Welcoming @CoachHesson to the @lionsdenkxip#LivePunjabiPlayPunjabi #KXIP pic.twitter.com/57AmpqvRNR

— Kings XI Punjab (@lionsdenkxip) October 29, 2018

It will be interesting to see whether Hesson will pick Virendra Sehwag in his support staff. Veteran batsman Sehwag was KXIP’s mentor till last season.

KXIP have never won the IPL and their last appearance in the play-offs came in 2014, when they lost to Kolkata Knight Riders in the final.

(With inputs from PTI)