From IU to Pakistan White Ball Coach
A New Chapter Begins for Coach Hesson
Ali Naqvi, Owner – Islamabad United
Congrats and Best Wishes, Mike!
“Let’s do it. Welcome to Islamabad United (IU), Coach!”, I gave him a thumbs-up, ended the Zoom call, and felt a quiet sense of satisfaction on that late October afternoon in 2023. I had spoken to Mike Hesson for the first time just a few days earlier, and it was immediately clear to me that he was the perfect fit for Islamabad United.
Since the inception of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) in 2016, my focus as the owner of Islamabad United has been to build the best possible management team. My role is to set the broad framework—on and off the field—finalize the strategy with the team, and then let them execute it during the season. After each season, we conduct a formal review: written reports from each manager, deep-dive sessions into every area, and a strategic reset for the next season.
The Need for Change
PSL 8 wasn’t our strongest season (by IU standards!). My key takeaway was that we needed more experience in the dressing room—specifically, a new head coach who could lead our existing coaching team and bring a fresh perspective.
Every franchise has its own unique culture. At Islamabad United, we pride ourselves on being a close-knit unit. So, bringing in a senior figure as a potential change agent required careful consideration. We needed someone strategic, analytical, and data-driven—yet calm, grounded, and respected enough to integrate seamlessly into our environment.
Why Mike Hesson?
By mid-2023, I had taken it upon myself to lead the search for a new head coach. We kept the process discreet and eventually shortlisted three names—two of them legends in their playing days, and the third, Mike Hesson.
I interviewed all three of them.
After my first call with Mike, I was convinced. He was strategic, analytical, and—most importantly—level-headed. He was exactly what Islamabad United needed.
Over the last two seasons, I’ve come to know Mike even better. Here’s what stood out:
Strategic Vision: He doesn’t just plan for the next game—he thinks long-term, building a roadmap for sustained success.
Analytical Mindset: He leverages data and embraces modern approaches to the game.
Calm Leadership: In the high-pressure environment of professional cricket, his composure is invaluable. He communicates clearly, holds his ground, and executes with precision.
Player-Centric Approach: Mike isn’t one for loud locker-room speeches. Instead, he focuses on one-on-one conversations—helping players understand their roles, refine their strengths, and stay focused.
A New Chapter
So, when the PCB came calling, I wasn’t surprised. Islamabad United has a proud history of preparing not just players, but also management talent for Pakistan cricket. Mike’s appointment is a continuation of that legacy.
As he takes on this new challenge, all of us at the #ISLUFamily wish him the very best. He has the right mix of experience, intellect, and temperament to unlock the potential of Pakistan’s immensely talented players.
I sincerely hope the PCB gives him the time and space—at least 12 to 24 months—to make a meaningful impact. He will be missed at Islamabad United, but he now has a bigger, more impactful task ahead.
Godspeed, Mike. You’ll always be part of the ISLU family.
#UnitedWeWin
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Islamabad United is the most successful team of the Pakistan Super League (PSL); winner of the first and third seasons of the HBL PSL. The franchise believes in bringing change to Pakistani sports with the introduction of international standards of practice and a commitment to continuous progress.
AAN – Leonine Sports is the proud owner of Islamabad United, the FIRST CHAMPIONS and one of the most successful teams in the Pakistan Super League. AAN-Leonine Sports is focused on enabling sports and creating franchises with a mission to provide: 1) A truly global experience on sports entertainment; 2) A fan base which is loyal, aware and supportive of the sport and the franchise; 3) An aspirational beacon for up and coming players to strive for excellence in cricket for Pakistan in particular and for the world at large; 4) An eco-system for the promotion of sports through close partnerships with the respective sports boards; 5) A truly professionally-run organization with exceptional standards of corporate governance and international best practices; 6) Promotion of Pakistan through sports and involvement of internationally known figures into Pakistan; 7) A responsible member on CSR.
The company focuses on the above mission statement by implementing a strategy built around the principle of 4 Es – Excellence, Empowerment, Education and Environment.