Mike Hussey turns down England offer to join Australia's coaching panel

Legendary batter Mike Hussey has turned down an offer from arch-rivals England and joined the coaching panel of his own country, Australia. Cricket Australia has appointed the former star, known in world cricket as 'Mr Cricket', as a coach and mentor.

Hussey has been brought in to strengthen the team's batting department ahead of the 2027 Ashes series and ODI World Cup, as well as the 2028 T20 World Cup.

Hussey had recently received an offer from England Test head coach Stephen Fleming's side. In the end, however, he made the final decision to work with Australia.

Hussey's new role will begin with Australia's upcoming T20 series against England. Alongside the short format, he will also work closely with the batting of Australia's Test team over the next 12 months.

The aim of the appointment is to fix batters' technical weaknesses and ensure consistent success at the upcoming global tournaments. Australia's team management wants to make full use of Hussey's long experience and cricketing wisdom.

Hussey expressed his delight at the new role. He said the chance to work with the national team across all three formats was extremely exciting for him. Noting that tough and important challenges lie ahead for the team, he hoped to contribute to its success with his experience.

Australia head coach Andrew McDonald also expressed satisfaction at having Hussey in the dugout. In his view, Hussey's experience and cricketing skill fit extremely well with the current coaching group and players, and will work as a major strength for Australia.

Mike Hussey played international cricket from 2004 to 2013. Across the three formats he scored 12,398 runs in 302 international matches at an average of 49, including 22 centuries and 72 half-centuries.

During his playing career he won one ODI World Cup and two ICC Champions Trophy titles with Australia.