Mike Hussey clueless about MS Dhoni recommending him as India coach

Former Australia cricketer Michael Hussey has said he is surprised by reports claiming that Mahendra Singh Dhoni had suggested his name to replace Duncan Fletcher as India’s coach.

Hussey, who is currently the skipper of Sydney Thunder in Big Bash, said on Friday that he is not sure whether he is ready to take up the job.

“I’m not sure if I’m really ready for that sort of challenge,” Hussey was quoted as saying by the Sydney Morning Herald. “Thanks, MS [Dhoni], if it’s true… but, I’m still playing!”

According to a report in the Hindustan Times, the former India Test captain has suggested to BCCI that Hussey, who has played alongside Dhoni in IPL franchise Chennai Super Kings, is the best man to replace Fletcher in the coach’s chair.

Fletcher’s contract with the Indian team is due to expire at the end of this year’s ICC Cricket world Cup in Australia and New Zealand and with yet another Test series defeat Down Under, it is highly unlikely that the Zimbabwean will get an extension.

Dhoni, who’s abrupt decision to retire from Test cricket midway in Australia tour shocked the entire cricket fraternity, is believed to have said that he sees a reflection of India’s World Cup-winning coach Gary Kirsten in Hussey and feels the Aussie can bring back the same cohesive environment to the Indian dressing room.

Hussey, who has played 79 Tests and is nicknamed “Mr Cricket”, said his immediate priority was to help the Sydney Thunder fulfill their 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,” Hussey added.