Australian cricket legend Mike Hussey has indicated he is open to the possibility of coaching England's Test batting side, potentially facing his home country in the upcoming Ashes series. The former left-handed batsman confirmed he had received an informal inquiry from Stephen Fleming, England's newly appointed red-ball coach.

Hussey and Fleming share a history, having been teammates and later coaching colleagues for 15 years at the Indian Premier League franchise Chennai Super Kings. This established rapport played a role in Fleming's approach.

"We obviously get on really well and work a lot together," Hussey, now a commentator for Fox Sports, told the outlet. He described the conversation with Fleming as a casual suggestion about potentially taking on the batting coach role.

While Hussey has not yet given the offer serious consideration, citing recent commitments coaching Welsh Fire in The Hundred, he did not rule out the prospect. He stated that he is generally open to coaching opportunities and enjoys working with different players, regardless of the team.

Should Hussey accept the role, it would place him in a unique position, working to develop strategies against his native Australia during the Ashes series, scheduled to take place in England during June, July, and August of next year. England are aiming to regain the Ashes urn, which they have not held since 2015.

Hussey acknowledged that such a scenario would feel "a bit weird," recalling his previous experience coaching England during the 2022 T20 World Cup. He noted that while initially strange, the focus quickly shifted to the coaching duties once he began working with the players.

Fleming's appointment as England's red-ball coach occurred in late July. He succeeded fellow New Zealander Brendon McCullum, who continues to lead England's white-ball teams. The Ashes series next year represents a significant challenge for England as they seek to reclaim dominance over Australia.

Hussey is currently taking a break and plans to give the coaching proposition further thought in due course. His extensive experience as a player, known for his technical acumen, and his coaching background make him a potentially valuable asset for any international side.