Mike Hussey joins Australia coaching staff for Ashes and 2027 WC

Hussey declines England role under Stephen Fleming

England’s recently appointed red-ball coach Stephen Fleming made an informal request for Hussey to serve as a Test batting mentor. Hussey declined the offer from the England staff to join the team, choosing instead to accept the broader consultancy role with Australia.

Coaching responsibilities for Ashes and 2027 World Cup

The 51-year-old will focus his efforts on addressing specific batting struggles that were exposed during recent matches.

His primary focus remains in the T20 format, having previously served as part of the coaching group that helped England win the 2022 T20 World Cup alongside Matthew Mott.

Andrew McDonald and Ben Oliver welcome Hussey's expertise

Australia head coach Andrew McDonald described Mike Hussey as a "highly valued part of our staff". He noted that Hussey brings a "considerable skill set" that complements current coaches and players. McDonald added that Hussey’s expertise and personal qualities are invaluable to the team.

Ben Oliver, Australia’s head of national teams, confirmed Hussey will remain involved in national team planning. He will provide additional T20 support to coaches, management, and selectors during a busy 12-month Test cricket schedule.

Oliver noted that the team looks forward to Hussey’s impact regarding the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics and the 2028 T20 World Cup. Hussey will continue to be involved in the build-up to these events without working directly with the squad.

Upcoming T20I series against England and Perth Test preparations

Hussey’s new consultancy role begins with the upcoming T20I series against England. He will work alongside assistant coach Andre Borovec and a young Australian squad throughout the series.

Andrew McDonald will sit out the England T20I series to rest for larger upcoming assignments. He has followed this practice for three years, leaving Borovec to lead the team.

Following the T20I series, Hussey will assist the Test squad in Perth. This work focuses on preparations for the upcoming Test series against New Zealand.

Earlier this year, Hussey declined an offer from Stephen Fleming to join the England Test coaching staff. He instead accepted the consultancy role with the Australian team.

Hussey's coaching background and previous limitations

Hussey played for Australia in over 300 international matches across all formats during his career.

His coaching experience includes serving as the long-time batting coach for the Chennai Super Kings under Stephen Fleming in the IPL.

He also coached at the Chennai Super Kings during the 2026 Indian Premier League.

In 2022, Hussey was a member of the England coaching staff during their T20 World Cup victory.

He further gained experience coaching the Welsh Fire team in The Hundred competition this year.

Previously, Hussey had limited availability for the Australian national side.

His commentary work and ongoing coaching commitments with the Chennai Super Kings and Welsh Fire restricted his participation.

Future roles for 2028 Olympics and T20 World Cup

Beyond his immediate duties, Hussey will act as a T20 adviser for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

He will also hold this advisory position for the 2028 T20 World Cup.

Australia and New Zealand will co-host that tournament.

Hussey expresses excitement for formal role

He said, "I am extremely excited about being a part of the team in a more formal and meaningful role in the coming years".