Travis Head Released from T20I Squad for Ashes Preparation
Travis Head has been released from Australia’s T20 International squad for the final two matches against India to join South Australia in the Sheffield Shield as part of his preparation for the Ashes.
Decision and Context
The move allows Head to focus on red-ball cricket ahead of the Ashes series, which starts on November 21 in Perth. Selectors have prioritized balancing workloads and fine-tuning players' readiness for the Test matches.
Player Choices and Team Updates
- Head played in the first three T20Is of the five-match series before opting to return to first-class cricket rather than continue with the white-ball format.
- Senior players like Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood will also feature in Sheffield Shield for New South Wales starting Monday.
- Cameron Green is expected to bowl for Western Australia against Queensland at the WACA Ground.
Match Details
Travis Head will play alongside Alex Carey for South Australia against Tasmania starting November 10. This will be Head's first first-class game since the West Indies tour in July and offers a chance to regain form after a quiet white-ball period.
"The group’s red-ball focus underscores Australia’s emphasis on Test preparation, particularly with the Ashes less than three weeks away."
Author's summary: Travis Head and other senior Australian players are prioritizing red-ball cricket in the Sheffield Shield to sharpen their skills ahead of the Ashes series starting late November.