Michael Hussey has turned down an opportunity to become England’s Test batting coach in favor of a part-time consultancy role with Cricket Australia. The former Australian batter had discussions with Stephen Fleming, England’s new Test head coach, but ultimately decided to remain in Australia, providing a boost to Pat Cummins’s team ahead of next year’s Ashes series.

Hussey's decision comes as he accepts a role that allows him the flexibility to continue his current commitments, including coaching in the Hundred and other franchise tournaments, alongside his commentary and punditry duties for Fox Sports in Australia. At 51 years old, Hussey has experience as the head coach for Welsh Fire in the Hundred and as a batting coach for Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League.

Despite his past collaboration with Fleming at CSK, Hussey opted against a full-time role, which would have been demanding given the busy winter schedule that includes tours to South Africa, Bangladesh, and Australia before the home Ashes series next summer. In contrast, his consultancy role allows him to balance his coaching responsibilities with other engagements.

Meanwhile, Fleming will continue his search for a batting coach for the England team. The England and Wales Cricket Board may consider retaining Marcus Trescothick, who has performed well in a caretaker role during the ongoing Test series against Pakistan.

In related news, former Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq has resigned from the national selection committee following a controversial decision to drop seven players mid-series, which has drawn significant criticism from former players like Shahid Afridi and Shoaib Malik. They have expressed concerns about the reasoning behind the changes and the potential negative impact on player morale.