Shane Watson wants former batsman Michael Hussey to become a permanent member of Cricket Australia’s coaching staff.
However, Watson expects Hussey’s desire for a more balanced family life could prove a stumbling block.
Hussey’s linked up with Australia’s 15-man squad when they landed in India for the World T20.
Batting coach Michael Di Venuto had just completed his final assignment, a T20 series in South Africa, before he starts as the new head coach of English county side Surrey. Fielding coach Greg Blewett has taken on Di Venuto’s formal role but Australia will need to beef up their coaching staff soon.
‘It would be an incredible luxury for the Australian team to be able to have Mike Hussey around a lot more regularly,’ Watson said of his Sydney Thunder teammate.
‘He’s got so much to offer. But it really comes down to what fits into Mike Hussey’s life … he’s got a beautiful big family at home. I know he’s doing everything he can to make sure he gives back to his family …he’s just trying to find the perfect balance.’
Hussey completed his playing career earlier this year when he guided the Thunder to their maiden Big Bash League title. Hussey, who played 185 ODIs, 79 Tests and 38 T20I’s for Australia, is already in great demand as a coach. India and Sri Lanka have both made advances, while he helped out South Africa during last year’s ODI World Cup.
‘He’s fitted in so well. He just wants the best for us and wants to have an impact on the batters and all the players,’ AB de Villiers said at the time.
Meanwhile Watson believes Glenn Maxwell can be a trump card for the Aussies at the tournament.
‘Glenn Maxwell is a huge player in our team no matter what the conditions are,’ Watson said. ‘The way he bats, whether the ball is turning or not turning, his array of shots when he gets into his innings is incredible.
‘He hits the ball all around the ground, no matter which way the ball is turning he can hit it to all parts of the ground. As a bowling option, if the ball is turning he’s a really good option and he’s got plenty of experience here in the subcontinent playing Twenty20 tournaments.
‘Glenn Maxwell, a majority of the time when he comes off in a game he wins the game for the team that he plays in. Hopefully he’s got a few games like that in him.’ – AAP and cricket.com.au
Australia’s next game is on Friday against New Zealand.
