Mike Hussey takes Australia coaching role ahead of Ashes and 2027 World Cup
The former Australia batsman will support the national team across several major tournaments after declining an informal approach to join England’s Test coaching staff.
By Evelyn Adeyemi ·
Australia appointed Mike Hussey as a consultant coach on Friday, November 6, with a brief that includes next year’s Ashes series against England and the 2027 Cricket World Cup. The appointment brings the former Australian batsman into a more formal role as the team seeks to address its batting difficulties.
Hussey, 51, has chosen to work with his home country after declining an informal approach from England. In August, he revealed that Stephen Fleming, England’s new red-ball coach, had sounded him out about becoming the side’s Test batting mentor. His decision comes with Australia looking to reverse a batting slump exposed during their recent 2-1 Test series loss in South Africa.
His work with Australia will begin with assignments at home this month. Hussey will provide coaching support during the T20 series against England before assisting with the four-Test series against New Zealand that follows. Those engagements precede the Ashes and World Cup commitments on his schedule for 2027.
The role will also extend to two major events in 2028. Hussey is set to work with Australia during the Los Angeles Olympics, where cricket is included in the programme, and at that year’s T20 World Cup. His responsibilities therefore cover both Test cricket and the shorter international formats.
Known as “Mr Cricket” for his technical knowledge, Hussey represented Australia in more than 300 matches across all formats. He welcomed the opportunity to take on a broader position with the national side, saying: “I am extremely excited about being a part of the team in a more formal and meaningful role in the coming years.”
Hussey also pointed to the team’s recent achievements and said he hoped to contribute to both the players and their coaches during the demanding period ahead. His coaching background includes work with Australia as well as England, whose staff he joined for their successful 2022 T20 World Cup campaign.
At franchise level, Hussey spent a long period as the Chennai Super Kings’ batting coach under Fleming in the Indian Premier League. He also led Welsh Fire in this year’s Hundred.
Australia head coach Andrew McDonald welcomed Hussey’s return, describing his previous contributions to the staff as highly valued. McDonald said Hussey’s skills complemented those of the existing coaches and players, highlighting his experience across formats, competitions and countries alongside his personal qualities.
