MS Dhoni Wants Mike Hussey as Team India Coach, But Aussie is Not Keen: Reports
MS Dhoni, who had retired from Test cricket, has reportedly suggested that Mike Hussey is the best man to replace chief India coach Duncan Fletcher. But the Australian may not be keen.
© BCCI
MS Dhoni has reportedly suggested to BCCI bosses that Mike Hussey is the best man to take over after chief coach Duncan Fletcher's contract runs out at the end of the 2015 World Cup. Hussey is a retired Australian Test cricketer with immaculate credentials. However, the Aussie may not be keen on the India job. (Also read: MS Dhoni quits - the untold story)
According to a report in the Hindustan Times, Dhoni has floated Hussey's name as chief coach when Zimbabwean Fletcher ends his contract in March 2015. Dhoni is expected to lead India in the 2015 World Cup. The squad will be named on January 6.
Dhoni and Hussey have been Chennai Super King teammates. The Australian, Dhoni believes, was a committed cricketer, non-controversial and like Gary Kirsten, has a calming influence on the dressing room. Kirsten was India's coach when they won the 2011 World Cup. Fletcher replaced Kirsten.
However, Sydney Morning Herald reports that Hussey may not been keen on the India job. He is clearly baffled by the report that links him to the BCCI coaching job.
Hussey said:  "I'm not sure if I'm really ready for that sort of challenge," said Hussey after he led the Thunder to an impressive victory over the defending Big Bash League champions, Perth, at the WACA on Thursday night. "Thanks, M.S., if it's true . . . but, I'm still playing!"
Hussey, a veteran of 79 Tests said his immediate priority was to help the Sydney Thunder fulfil its vast potential. "This has been a huge motivation," said Hussey of his role. "To build something up ... something we can be very proud of ... really motivated me to join the Thunder."
In the Indian Premier League, Hussey was roped in by Mumbai Indians after CSK released him last season. The reasons may not have been totally cricketing. With a long relationship with Indian cricket, Hussey, Dhoni reckons, will be a good choice. But with increasing doubt over Dhoni's future in Indian cricket, it remains to be seen how the Board takes the Hussey suggestion, if at all the HT report is correct.