Cricket Australia (CA) said on Friday that Australia’s opener Travis Head will miss the Big Bash League (BBL) for the third consecutive season in order to rest and get ready for the Twenty20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka next month.
Left-hander Head, who finished as the series’ top scorer with 629 runs from five Tests, played a significant role in Australia’s 4-1 Ashes victory against England.
After playing three Tests against England, Cameron Green will likewise miss the BBL. After undergoing significant back surgery in late 2024, the all-rounder—who does not have a BBL contract—is attempting to regain full fitness ahead of the World Cup.
The World Cup squad members Josh Hazlewood (hamstring) and Pat Cummins (back) were not discussed in detail by the board, but it is doubtful that the recuperating speed duo would be tried before the global showpiece.
“A five-Test match Ashes series is intense. We have worked with each player on individual plans to best support recovery from the Ashes and preparation for upcoming international commitments including the ICC T20 World Cup. Wherever possible, this includes players representing their clubs in the ongoing BBL season over the coming fortnight,” Reuters quoted CA general manager, national teams, Ben Oliver as saying.
On February 11, Australia will play Ireland in Group B in Colombo to start their quest for a second T20 World Cup title.
