Aussies turn to ‘Mr Cricket’: Former CSK coach joins Australia support team for Ashes and 2027 World Cup

Australian batsman Steve Smith (AP) Mike Hussey was on Friday named as the consultant coach of Australia’s squad for next year’s Ashes series against England and the 2027 ODI World Cup.The former Australian batsman revealed in August that new England red-ball coach Stephen Fleming had informally approached him to take on the role of batting mentor. However, the 51-year-old rejected the offer and instead opted to work with Australia as they look to address their batting woes, which were exposed during their recent 2-1 Test series defeat in South Africa.Hussey, who has earned the nickname ‘Mr Cricket’ for his technical knowledge of the game, will also assist Australia’s coaching staff during the home T20 series against England and the subsequent four-Test series against New Zealand.His role will extend beyond next year’s assignments, with Hussey also working with Australia at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, where he will play cricket, and the 2028 T20 World Cup.“I am extremely excited to be part of the team in a more formal and meaningful role in the coming years,” said Hussey, who has represented Australia in more than 300 international matches across all formats.“This team has done so much recently and I hope I can add value to the coaching and playing groups ahead of what will be an exciting and challenging season.”Hussey has considerable coaching experience having worked with both Australia and England. He was part of England’s coaching set-up when they won the T20 World Cup in 2022 and served as the long-serving batting coach of Chennai Super Kings under Fleming in the Indian Premier League. He also coached Welsh Fire in this year’s edition of The Hundred.“Mike has been a highly valued part of our team in the past and brings a significant skill set to complement the coaches and players,” Australia head coach Andrew McDonald said.“Invaluable are not only his experiences as a player and coach across different formats, competitions and countries, but also his qualities as a person.”