Mike Hussey Weighs Up Potential England Coaching Role for Upcoming Ashes Series
Former Australian cricketing stalwart Mike Hussey has revealed that he is open to the possibility of assisting England’s batting unit during next year’s highly anticipated Ashes series. The prospect of the Australian legend joining the English camp comes after an informal approach from newly appointed head coach Stephen Fleming.
Fleming, who assumed the reins of the England Test team this past July following the departure of Brendon McCullum, shares a deep professional history with Hussey. The duo has been a fixture of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) coaching setup for the better part of 15 years, building a rapport that has sparked speculation regarding a potential collaboration on the international stage.
While Hussey admitted uncertainty regarding the seriousness of the initial inquiry, he maintained that he would not dismiss the opportunity out of hand.
"There are a lot of different things to consider. My short answer is I would not say no to anything really," Hussey told Fox Sports News. "I love the coaching side of the game. I love trying to help players get better, whether they are Australians, English, South Africans, Pakistan, India, or anywhere—it does not bother me."
A Familiar Yet Unusual Challenge
Hussey is no stranger to the England setup, having served as a batting consultant during their triumphant 2022 T20 World Cup campaign. However, he acknowledged that the prospect of working against his home nation in the world’s most iconic Test series presents a unique psychological hurdle.
"It would feel a bit weird – definitely – coaching for England against Australia in an Ashes series, no question," the former batter noted. "But if that is your job and that is what you are doing, you just get on with it. I don’t feel as if I am coaching against a team; I sort of feel as if I am coaching with a team, regardless of who the opposition is."
Despite the intrigue, the 79-Test veteran emphasized that he is not in a rush to make a commitment. "I won’t be rushing into a decision. I have a very close relationship with Stephen Fleming and that has an impact on it as well. The time away from family is a real thing for me. I am not in a position to say yay or nay any time soon."
Endorsing the Fleming Philosophy
Hussey expressed strong confidence in Fleming’s ability to reshape England’s approach to the game. Under the new leadership, Hussey expects a departure from the "reckless" style of the previous era toward a more nuanced, tactical brand of cricket.
"He has a very good understanding of the game," Hussey said of his long-time colleague. "He is a very shrewd operator who gets that balance between enjoyment, fun, and building strong relationships. He has a great chance to do well. He wants to keep the game moving forward, but perhaps not as recklessly as England have been recently. He will try and be a bit smarter with it."
As England prepares to host the Ashes throughout June, July, and August next year, the team remains desperate to reclaim the urn—a feat they have not achieved since 2015. Whether Hussey will be in the dressing room to help them bridge that gap remains to be seen.
