New Zealand extend Hesson's contract

Mike Hesson has extended his contract as head coach of New Zealand, signing on for another two years after next year's World Cup. Hesson began in the job in July 2012 and his original contract was due to expire at the end of April next year, but that has now been extended to the end of April 2017.

New Zealand have won their past three Test series under Hesson, at home against West Indies and India, and then away against West Indies. Only twice before have New Zealand won three consecutive Test series. Their most recent ODI series was also a triumph, beating India 4-0.

"It's great news for the players and for the sport to have consistency in this role for our flagship team for nearly five years," the New Zealand Cricket CEO David White said.

"Mike has worked incredibly hard to build our relatively young Test team into one that is now challenging the top sides in the world. His selections have also earned praise from some of the greats of the game."

"How the team performed at home over the summer against both the West Indies and India showed that both Mike and [captain] Brendon [McCullum] have built a side capable of knocking over anyone on their day."

Hesson, who came to the role after coaching Kenya and spending six years at the helm of Otago, said he was keen to keep developing the side after the World Cup. "It's a really exciting time for the sport with the World Cup at home," Hesson said, "our senior players performing well and a promising group of youngsters who are all fighting for World Cup spots."

New Zealand are also expected to announce their new batting coach in the next few days. Craig McMillan filled the role in a short-term capacity during the tour of the West Indies after the departure of Bob Carter, and he could be in line to win the job full-time.