Hesson joins Kings XI in first coaching role after leaving New Zealand

The former New Zealand head coach has succeeded Brad Hodge after the Australian was axed for failing to take the side beyond the league stage of the 2018 competition

Mike Hesson has been confirmed as the new head coach of Kings XI Punjab.

The former New Zealand chief has succeeded Brad Hodge in the role after the Australian was axed for failing to take the side beyond the league stage of the 2018 Indian Premier League.

Hesson, 43, left the Blackcaps at the end of July after six years in charge, a year before his contract was due to expire.

"This job requires 100 per cent commitment and is all consuming," he said at the time, explaining his decision. "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.

"The idea of missing a match, a tour or a format, as has been proposed at different times, has never sat well with me."

Kings XI have managed to tempt Hesson back into a coaching position, however, and he will report to head of operations Virender Sehwag.

Meanwhile, the franchise have swapped Marcus Stoinis with Royal Challengers Bangalore's Mandeep Singh.