"Colin's been a talented player for a long time but we've been waiting for something to click, to show he's worked out how to play at first-class level first.
"In the last six months we've seen really good signs of that with bat and ball.
"It was just a matter of time. People mature at different stages. In this instance, Colin (aged 30) is probably a slightly later maturer, but has plenty of years in him."
Hesson said he had ''no regrets at all" at not taking Raval to India, where New Zealand were beaten 3-0 in their last test series, the last chances for long-time opener Martin Guptill, who made way for Raval in Christchurch.
He wanted the right time to introduce the lean lefthander, who made 55 and 36 not out in the test win.
"His decision making was exceptional. The key is giving Jeet the best opportunity to be successful and he certainly grabbed it with both hands."
What type of pitch New Zealand and Pakistan will be presented with in Hamilton shapes as a key discussion point in the leadup to the match.
"I think Christchurch was an excellent pitch.
"On the first day (when 13 wickets fell) sure it seamed but a pitch which had pace and bounce, if you have no seam movement can still create opportunity," Hesson said. "In Hamilton we've had a few different ones."
He doesn't subscribe to the view that Pakistan were underdone by having their one leadup match in Nelson washed out.
"They are No 2 in the world for a reason. They're a proud nation, have done well in England (earlier this year).
"I'm sure they'll challenge us, will learn from this game and come hard at us. It's about making sure we are prepared for that."
