Michael Hussey: Profile of Australia’s ‘Mr Cricket’

Michael Hussey, nicknamed “Mr Cricket” for his devotion to the game, became one of Australia’s most reliable batters despite not making his international debut until his thirties. Born in Perth in 1975, he spent many years building a huge body of domestic runs.

Early life and rise

Hussey piled up runs for Western Australia and in English county cricket for years before he was selected for Australia. He made his Test debut in late 2005, aged 30, and began his Test career by scoring heavily, showing that his long apprenticeship had prepared him well for the international level.

Playing style

A left-handed batter with an unorthodox but effective technique, Hussey was strong off the back foot and especially good at cutting and pulling. He was patient and organised in Tests, yet he could also accelerate rapidly in limited-overs cricket, which made him a valued finisher in white-ball sides.

Career highlights

Hussey played 79 Tests, scoring 6,235 runs at an average above 51 (as of the end of 2024). His ODI career brought more than 5,000 runs, and he was part of the Australian team that won the 2007 World Cup. He is also remembered for a spectacular innings in the 2010 T20 World Cup semi-final against Pakistan, when he guided Australia to a remarkable win.

He also had a long association with Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League and played county cricket for sides including Northamptonshire and Durham.

Legacy

Hussey retired from international cricket in 2013. His late start and rapid success are often cited as proof of the value of persistence, and he has remained involved in the game through coaching, commentary and writing.

Frequently asked questions

Why is Michael Hussey called Mr Cricket?

The nickname reflects his deep love of the game and his dedication.

At what age did Hussey make his Test debut?

He debuted in 2005 at the age of 30.

How many Test runs did he score?

He scored 6,235 runs in 79 Tests, as of the end of 2024.