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England’s new Test head coach Stephen Fleming was interested in working with former Australia player Michael Hussey, who is the current batting coach of the Chennai Super Kings. The two were together in the backroom staff of the franchise for years before the New Zealand great parted ways with the five-time champions in July this year. Having known Hussey closely, Fleming was ready to bring him on board as England batting coach in red-ball cricket. However, the legendary Australia cricketer has refused to accept his offer and is instead on the verge of taking a part-time consultancy role with Cricket Australia. His decision will help Australia in their preparations for next year’s Ashes in England.

According to a report from The Guardian, Hussey has given his commitment to Australia because it will allow him to manage his role in franchise cricket. The 51-year-old spoke to Fleming last month but has decided to remain in Australia.

The England and Wales Cricket Board is in the process of hiring new members for the coaching staff after the departure of Brendon McCullum. England are leading 2-0 against Pakistan, and the Joe Root-led team would face South Africa, Bangladesh and Australia.

Hussey also has a contract with Welsh Fire in The Hundred and is involved as a commentator with Fox Sports.

He has a connection with the England cricket team, having worked with them as a part-time consultant during their success in the 2022 T20 World Cup. Fleming was confident of convincing Hussey, but things didn’t work out between the two.

Hussey picks flexibility over England job

The main reason behind Hussey’s call is the flexibility, as his role with Cricket Australia allows him to work with other franchises. Australia have a hectic Test schedule, but the part-time role gives freedom to Hussey to manage his workload involving international matches, franchise league and broadcasting duties.

Hussey’s no is a setback for Fleming, who wanted him in his team. The ECB will have to look at other options before finalising a name. Former England batter Marcus Trescothick is one of the candidates.

Trescothick is currently working as England’s interim Test head coach in the ongoing three-match series against Pakistan. He was the batting coach during McCullum’s coaching stint and impressed everyone. There is a possibility of him getting retained if England fail to find a suitable candidate.

Massive boost for Australia

Hussey’s arrival will help Australia batters before the upcoming bilateral assignments. He played 79 Tests, 185 ODIs and 38 T20Is, with the southpaw amassing  6,235 Test runs at an average of 51.52. Hussey was one of the top performers for Australia in the successful campaign in the 2007 World Cup. He retired from international cricket in 2013. He has a lot of experience as a player and coach, with Australia likely to benefit as they aim to win the ongoing 2025-27 cycle.

For England, the search for a batting coach continues. With the series against Pakistan already in the bag, the attention will turn towards completing the coaching staff capable of getting the best out of the players when the Ashes starts next year.