Recently retired Nottinghamshire legend David Hussey has described Trent Bridge as ‘a ground he fell in love with’ as he looked back over his decade-long period with the club.
Hussey, 39, announced he had called time on his playing career following the conclusion of the Australian Big Bash League.
“It’s the people and the ground I fell in love with,” he said. “I stay in close contact with some of the guys and I’m always looking at the scores hoping Notts are doing well. Hopefully this year’s going to be a successful one and we’ll compete for big trophies again.”
Having signed for the Club in 2004, Hussey quickly made a name for himself amongst the supporters, scoring 1208 runs in his first full season. That personal haul, which came at an average of 63.57, proved to be crucial as his new county lifted the second division title.
From there, Hussey would be a trophy winner on two more occasions before he departed for the final time in 2013.
“The highlight for me was winning the county championship. I didn’t know what it meant to win a trophy at the club, but seeing the joy on Mick (Newell’s) and Paul Johnson’s face was breath-taking."
“That’s when it hits home that you’re not playing cricket for yourself but for the whole county. You win for the whole county and the supporters, that was the highlight is for me.”
Aside from his spell at Trent Bridge, Hussey also held a long-standing affiliation with Australian state side, Victoria, where he is now working as part of the coaching setup.
He represented both clubs with such distinction, that, aside from T20 franchises, he never represented any other domestic outfit.
“That’s something I am really proud about,” Hussey said. “Just playing for Victoria on one hand and Notts the other. I’m really happy to be that loyal person that just played for two sides."
“I would never have dreamt it would have lasted that long at Notts when I arrived. Mick didn’t even really know what he’d signed, but it blossomed and I made friends for life.”
Working as a batting coach for Victoria, Hussey has plenty to occupy his mind in retirement.
“I’m really enjoying it at the minute. It’s nice to see the young kids with their aspirations and I’m going to try and fast track them to achieve their dreams of playing cricket at the highest level. I’m nervous, yet excited about the future and what’s to come.”
..............................
It’s jolly convenient to receive latest news, ticket information and behind the scenes exploits direct to your inbox - and rest assured we’ll never pass on your information to others.