Australia’s Big Bash League is set to welcome several players from the national Ashes squad, including stand-in captain Steve Smith. However, Travis Head will not participate in the upcoming matches as he has been rested ahead of the T20 World Cup in February.
Confirmed Players for the Big Bash
The following players have been confirmed to return to the Big Bash this weekend:
- Steve Smith – Sydney Sixers
- Alex Carey – Adelaide Strikers
- Marnus Labuschagne – Brisbane Heat
- Usman Khawaja – Brisbane Heat
Availability of Key Players
In addition, bowlers Michael Neser and Mitchell Starc will join their respective teams starting January 14 and January 16. This allows them to participate in two crucial group matches.
Specific dates for player availability are as follows:
- Brisbane Heat: Marnus Labuschagne and Usman Khawaja from January 10
- Sydney Sixers: Steve Smith from January 11
- Adelaide Strikers: Alex Carey from January 11
- Brisbane Heat: Michael Neser from January 14
- Sydney Sixers: Mitchell Starc from January 16
Absent Players
Several notable players will be absent from the upcoming matches:
- Travis Head – rested
- Scott Boland – managed
- Cameron Green – uncontracted
- Pat Cummins – recovering from injury
- Josh Hazlewood – recovering from injury
- Nathan Lyon – hamstring injury
The Big Bash League continues to adapt as players balance club commitments with national duties and recovery from injuries. Fans can look forward to seeing the confirmed players back in action soon.
