McMillan to join Hesson in IPL after World Cup
WELLINGTON: Black Caps batting coach Craig McMillan is to join former coach of the national side Mike Hesson in the Indian Premier League.
McMillan has resigned from his role and will step down following the World Cup in the United Kingdom starting in late May.
McMillan was hired by Hesson in 2014 and will now join him at the Kings Eleven Punjab, where Hes son is now coaching on a twoyear deal.
The 42yearold said he felt the time was right to move on.
‘‘It’s been an amazing experience and one I’ve immensely enjoyed,’’ McMillan said.
‘‘To help coach the national team on the world stage has been a real honour and I feel incredibly lucky to have worked with so many good people and in such a great environment.’’
McMillan points to the 2015 World Cup and his work with the batsmen as highlights of his tenure.
‘‘To be involved in such an incredible World Cup on home soil and see the way the country embraced the team was really special.
‘‘It’s been a privilege to be able to work with the likes of Brendon McCullum, Kane Williamson and Ross Taylor day in and day out and to see the records they’ve accomplished has been very satisfying, as has the development of younger players like Tom Latham and Henry Nicholls.’’
McMillan said he was looking to pursue other coaching opportunities but has not elaborated on what they are.
Black Caps captain Kane Williamson said McMillan’s character and commitment stood out.
‘‘Macca has a huge passion for the game and he’s constantly trying to challenge players to get better.
‘‘He has a lot of cricket knowledge and will certainly be missed by the group, although maybe his fielding warmups on those cold mornings won’t be.’’
McMillan is taking a short scheduled break through the threegame oneday international series against Bangladesh, before returning for the threetest series to end the home summer.
New Zealand Cricket chief executive David White said the planning for McMillan’s replacement would happen in due course. The new batting coach’s first assignment would be the test tour of Sri Lanka in August. — RNZ