Former Australian batsman Mike Hussey is being considered for a role as batting coach for England’s Test cricket team following an approach from newly appointed head coach Stephen Fleming. Fleming, who recently left his position as head coach of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) franchise, is expected to officially take on the England role in December, delayed due to family commitments.

Hussey and Fleming share a longstanding professional relationship, having worked together both as teammates at CSK in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and later with Hussey joining Fleming’s coaching staff at the franchise. In addition to their IPL collaboration, Hussey contributed as a consultant coach for England during their successful T20 World Cup campaign in 2022.

Currently 51 years old, Hussey serves as the head coach of the Welsh Fire men’s team in the Hundred competition, where England Test captain Joe Root is among his senior players. While Welsh Fire has declined to comment, reports indicate that discussions between Fleming and Hussey are still in early stages. There is also speculation that Hussey could be offered the head coach position at CSK, which may present a more lucrative and prominent opportunity than an assistant role with England.

England’s coaching staff is currently comprised of assistant coaches such as Marcus Trescothick, Carl Hopkinson, Sarah Taylor, and Mike Yardy, who leads the under-19 team. Additionally, Tim Southee and Jeetan Patel, both former New Zealand international players, are involved as fast bowling and spin bowling coaches, respectively. With England facing a demanding winter schedule, there is an increased need for a broader pool of assistant coaches to manage both Test and white-ball fixtures.

As England prepares to announce its squad for the upcoming Test series against Pakistan, selectors are expected to field a largely familiar team. However, they face the immediate challenge of addressing the void left by the retirement of all-rounder Ben Stokes.