Hesson quits as NZ coach

Black Caps coach Mike Hesson has stepped down with a year still to run on his contract.

In a shock announcement at New Zealand Cricket headquarters in Auckland yesterday, Hesson confirmed his resignation as coach, effective on July 31, to end his successful six-year stint.

He said the rigours of international cricket were a big factor, as he looks to spend more time with his wife and two daughters.

With the World Cup a year away, Hesson felt he’d make the decision now rather than later.

‘‘This job requires 100 percent commitment and is all consuming,’’ he 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.

‘‘NZC, in particular David White and the board, have given me incredible support, including flexibility and options. But the idea of missing a match, a tour or a format, as has been proposed at different times, has never sat well with me.’’

Chief executive David White said NZC supported Hesson’s decision and understood the basis for it, but was still sad to see him step down.

‘‘I tried to persuade him to stay on for another 12 months but his mind was made up,’’ White said. ‘‘We understand his position.

‘‘Mike has overseen one of NZC’S most successful periods of international cricket, he’s more than realised the potential we saw in him back in 2012, and has grown into one of the most respected coaches on the international circuit.

‘‘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.’’

Hesson overtook John Bracewell (five years, two months) last year as the Black Caps’ longest serving coach.

On Hesson’s watch the Black Caps are ranked fourth across all three formats, they made the World Cup final against Australia in 2015 and completed a New Zealand record 13-match winning streak at home last summer.

In April they completed their first test series win over England since 1999, which saw them briefly climb above Australia into third on the world rankings.

Since Hesson took over in August 2012, New Zealand won 21 and lost 19 of their 53 tests, won 65 and lost 46 of their 119 ODIS, and won 30 and lost 24 of their 59 Twenty20 internationals.

In a statement, former New Zealand captain Brendon Mccullum said Hesson’s progressive approach to coaching, and expert team management, was a key factor behind the side’s renaissance.

‘‘We remember the 2015 World Cup as a great time for New Zealand and Mike should be recognised for the huge part he played in that,’’ Mccullum said.

‘‘His meticulous planning and eye for detail gave us our best chance of success and he can be proud of what he helped the team achieve.

‘‘Personally, I regard him as the best coach the Black Caps have ever had.’’