Former Australian cricketer Mike Hussey is reportedly in discussions to join England’s new Test coaching staff, potentially taking on the role of batting coach. The possibility comes following an approach by incoming Test head coach Stephen Fleming, with whom Hussey has a longstanding professional relationship. The two previously played together and worked alongside each other at Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL), where Hussey later joined Fleming’s backroom team as a batting specialist.

Hussey, often referred to as “Mr Cricket” during his playing days, has prior experience working with the England team. In 2022, he served as a consultant coach during England’s successful campaign in the T20 World Cup held in Australia. He is currently involved in The Hundred competition as the head coach of Welsh Fire, a squad which includes former England Test captain Joe Root.

England’s current batting coach, Marcus Trescothick, is managing the interim coaching responsibilities for the upcoming three-Test series against Pakistan starting August 19, while Fleming attends to family commitments. Trescothick is expected to retain his coaching role until Fleming officially assumes duties later this year, likely in December during England’s tour of South Africa. Should Hussey join the Test coaching staff, it is anticipated that Trescothick may transition to a coaching position focused on England’s white-ball teams under head coach Brendon McCullum.

The potential appointment of Hussey signals a continuation of England’s cooperation with experienced international personnel, reflecting a growing trend of cross-border coaching collaborations. While the approach to Hussey has been described as informal by some reports, others indicate that it is moving toward formal discussions.

England is preparing to name the squad for the first Test against Pakistan at Headingley on August 19, ahead of which the coaching arrangements remain subject to confirmation. The combination of Fleming and Hussey, both with extensive playing and coaching backgrounds, is seen by some analysts as a valuable addition to England’s coaching structure as the team seeks to improve its performance in the Test arena.