The Perth-born Michael Hussey is edged in every cricket fan who has been following the game for a long time now. Especially, for a Chennai Super Kings fan, Hussey lives in their heads rent-free, as the Gen-Z would say. However, not a lot of people know this but, Hussey not only has been a part of CSK but its arch-rival Mumbai Indians too. Despite that, an IPL enthusiast could only imagine Hussey wearing the ‘Yellove-jersey’ only. Such is the legacy of this Australian-Rahul Dravid.
Nicknamed “Mr. Cricket,” Hussey, left an indelible mark on the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) franchise in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Hussey had played an unforgettable role in the team’s success during his six-year tenure with CSK from 2008 to 2013. He was an integral part of the team’s batting line-up, providing stability and consistency with his elegant batting style.
Michael Hussey IPL Stats
Michael Hussey’s career in the Indian Premier League (IPL) spanned over 7 years, with his most successful seasons being 2012 and 2013. His overall batting average of 38.76 is decent, while his strike rate of 122.64 is impressive. He has a good balance of big scores, with four half-centuries and a highest score of 116*.
Notably, Hussey’s performance in the initial seasons was consistent, with an average above 40. However, as the seasons progressed, his average dropped slightly. He was more effective as an opener, with a higher average and strike rate in these positions.
His highest score of 116* came in the inaugural season of the IPL, and it was one of the highest scores in the tournament’s history. His ability to rotate the strike and play as a helper to other batters made him a valuable asset to his team.
Michael Hussey for CSK: From Disastrous 2013 to Top Scorer in 2014
Hussey’s ability to adapt to different conditions is also evident from his performance in different seasons. He had a relatively poor season in 2014, but bounced back strongly in 2013. In this season, Hussey scoring 733 runs in 16 matches, earned the Orange Cap. His adaptability, whether attacking early or chasing targets, made him invaluable. With six fifties, his top score was 95. Despite CSK’s strong performances, they lost the final to Mumbai Indians, finishing runners-up.
His partnership with Matthew Hayden, another Australian stalwart, formed a formidable opening pair that laid the foundation for CSK’s victories.
Hussey’s leadership skills also played a significant role in CSK’s success. He captained the team during Hayden’s absence and led by example, inspiring his teammates to perform at their best. Overall, Michael Hussey’s legacy with CSK is one of loyalty, dedication, and exceptional cricketing skills, making him a beloved figure in the franchise’s history.
Micheal Hussey’s Impact on CSK as Batting Coach
In 2018, the 5-time IPL winner, CSK roped Mike Hussey as the batting coach with MS Dhoni playing still as captain. During that time, Super Kings had only won the title 2 times. However, after the Australian lefty batter took up the new role, CSK bagged three IPL trophies under Dhoni’s captaincy.
While Hussey’s impact as a player during his tenure was undeniably exceptional, his coaching skills can’t be ignored too. Since 2018, CSK have produced some of the greatest batters playing for different nations worldwide. Be it Ruturaj Gaikwad and Shivam Dube for India or Devon Conway and Daryl Mitchell for New Zealand, their performance and dominance on the field is a result of CSK management and especially Hussey’s efforts.
With Mike Hussey as the batting coach, Dwayne Bravo as the bowling coach, and Stephen Flaming as the Head coach, CSK have the potential to conquer the cash-rich tournament and produce great players. In addition to that, MS Dhoni’s involvement in the team, be it as a player, captain or even mentor in the future would only add to their benefit.
Also read: IPL Uncapped Player Rule Explained
Thank you for reading.
