Mike Hesson is resigning as coach of the national cricket side.
The Dunedin resident, who helped steer the Black Caps to new heights in all three formats, has decided to step down from the head-coaching role in order to take a break from the rigours of international cricket, and to spend more time with his wife and two daughters.
After six successful years in the role, Hesson (42) said he no longer felt confident of fully committing to the role for another 12 months, and thought it better to make the decision now rather than later.
“This job requires 100 percent commitment and is all consuming,” he said today.
“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."
His resignation takes effect from July 31.
NZC chief executive David White said it supported Hesson's decision and understood the basis for it - but was still sad to see him go.
"I tried to persuade him to stay on for another 12 months but his mind was made up," White said.
"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."
As Hesson's contract was due to expire at the end of next year's ICC Cricket World Cup 2019, NZC's planning was already well-advanced, White said.
Black Caps' captain Kane Williamson said Hesson would be remembered as a selfless coach, and someone who extracted the maximum potential from his teams.
- additional reporting by NZ Herald
