Blow to Stephen Fleming: CSK legend rejects England Test batting coach job ahead of 2027 Ashes

Former Australia batter Michael Hussey has turned down the opportunity to become England’s Test batting coach and is instead set to join Cricket Australia in a part-time consultancy role. The decision comes as a boost for Australia ahead of next year’s Ashes and leaves England Test head coach Stephen Fleming searching for another batting coach.According to a report in The Guardian, Hussey preferred the Australia role because its flexible nature will allow him to continue his existing commitments in franchise cricket, The Hundred and commentary. The 51-year-old had spoken to Fleming last month about joining England’s coaching staff but has decided to remain in Australia.The report said the flexibility offered by Cricket Australia was a key factor in Hussey’s decision, compared with the more demanding role proposed by England and Fleming.Hussey was Welsh Fire’s head coach in The Hundred this year and has also worked as a batting coach for Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League.Fleming and Hussey worked together for 18 years at CSK, first as player and coach, before their association ended this year. Fleming was unable to convince his former colleague to join him with England.Hussey had previously worked with England as a part-time consultant during their successful T20 World Cup campaign in 2022. However, taking up a full-time role as Test batting coach would have involved a heavier workload, with England scheduled to tour South Africa, Bangladesh and Australia this winter before hosting the Ashes next summer.Australia’s Test schedule is also demanding, but Hussey will be able to work around his other commitments under the part-time arrangement.Fleming can continue looking for a batting coach, although the England and Wales Cricket Board could decide to retain Marcus Trescothick. Trescothick has been working as caretaker batting coach during the ongoing Test series against Pakistan.Hussey made his Test debut for Australia as a 30-year-old in late 2005 and went on to play 79 Tests, 185 ODIs and 38 T20Is.He retired from international cricket in January 2013, ending his Test career with 6,235 runs at an average of 51.52. He was also part of Australia’s 2007 World Cup-winning team.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.