Australia add Mike Hussey to coaching staff ahead of 2027 Ashes in bid to solve batting woes

The appointment was announced on Friday, with Hussey's stint also taking in the 2027 50-over ‌World Cup in Africa as well as the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics and ​subsequent T20 World Cup later that year.

The Australian Test side, in particular, have faced mounting scrutiny over ​their batting after slumping to a 2-1 series defeat in South Africa in October, having collapsed to 99 all out in the second Test in Gqeberha and 111 all out on the final day of the series-decider in Cape Town.

The setback followed ​a shock nine-wicket loss at home to Bangladesh in August, their first ever in Tests to the Tigers.

"I am extremely excited about being a part of the team in a more formal and meaningful ‌role in the coming years," Hussey said of his appointment in a statement.

"This team has achieved so much in recent times, to which I hope I can add ‌value to the coaching and playing groups ahead of what will be an exciting and challenging period."

Affectionately nicknamed 'Mr Cricket', Hussey is set for his second spell with the Australian coaching setup, having previously worked as a consultant during the 2016 T20 World Cup in India.

He adopted the same role for England during their 2022 T20 ​World Cup win in Australia, while he also worked under England's new Test head coach Stephen Fleming for eight years as batting coach for IPL franchise Chennai Super Kings.

The 51-year-old, who played 302 matches for Australia across all formats, will begin his role during Australia's T20 series against England, which starts ‌on November 21.

"Mike has been ​a highly valued part of our staff in the ​past and brings a considerable skill set which is complementary ​to the coaches and players," Australia head coach Andrew McDonald said.

"Not only is ⁠his expertise as a player and coach across multiple formats, competitions, countries invaluable, so are his qualities as a person."