Former Australian batter Michael Hussey has confirmed he is open to joining England as their Test batting coach. This follows an informal approach from England's newly appointed red-ball head coach, Stephen Fleming.

Hussey and Fleming share a highly successful 15-year relationship at the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the IPL, first as teammates and later as head coach and batting coach.

Speaking to Fox Sports, Hussey confirmed the informal approach, while also clarifying that he hasn’t made the final decision yet.

“We obviously get on really well and work a lot together,” Hussey said. “So, it was just a bit of a passing comment, really saying, ‘Look, what do you reckon? Would you think about being the batting coach?’”

If Hussey accepts, he will find himself in the opposition dugout when England hosts Australia for the highly anticipated 2027 Ashes series.

Fondly known as 'Mr. Cricket,' Hussey admitted that crossing the fierce rivalry divide would feel "weird," but stopped short of ruling it out.

“There is a lot of different things to consider. My short answer is I would not say no to anything really. It would feel a bit weird – definitely – coaching for England against Australia in an Ashes series, no question.”

While extended time away remains a major concern for Hussey, the 51-year-old’s close bond with Fleming heavily influences his choice.

“I have a very close relationship with Stephen Fleming and that has an impact on it as well. The time away from family is a real thing for me. I am not in a position to say yay or nay any time soon.”

Hussey previously worked as a consultant for England during their victorious 2022 T20 World Cup campaign and views international coaching as helping players rather than fighting specific countries.

“I love the coaching side of the game. I love trying to help players get better whether they are Australians, English, South Africans, Pakistan or India or anywhere, it does not bother me. I don’t feel as if I am coaching against a team – that’s the thing. I sort of feel as if I am coaching with a team whether it is against Australia or South Africa or some other team.”

Meanwhile, Hussey publicly backed Fleming's appointment, stating the former New Zealand skipper is a "shrewd operator" who will retain England's attacking brand of cricket but execute it with a smarter, more controlled approach compared to the "Bazball" era.

“He has a very good understanding of the game. Very shrewd operator who gets that balance between enjoyment and fun and relationships. He has a great chance to do well. He wants to keep the game moving forward but perhaps not as recklessly as England have been recently. He will try and be a bit smarter with it.”

Stephen Fleming will officially begin his stint as England's men's Test head coach during the winter tour of South Africa in December 2026.