Travis Head Released from T20I Squad for Ashes Preparation
Travis Head has been withdrawn from Australia's T20 International squad for the last two matches against India to focus on red-ball cricket in the Sheffield Shield, playing for South Australia. This move allows him to prepare specifically for the upcoming Ashes series.
Details of the Decision
According to cricket.com.au, selectors are managing senior players' workloads and enabling them to fine-tune their form ahead of the Ashes, which starts on November 21 in Perth. Head participated in the first three T20Is of the five-match series before choosing to leave the white-ball format and return to domestic red-ball cricket.
Senior Players Returning to First-Class Cricket
- Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood will play for New South Wales in their upcoming Sheffield Shield match starting Monday.
- Cameron Green is anticipated to bowl again for Western Australia against Queensland at the WACA Ground.
This group’s focus on red-ball cricket highlights Australia's commitment to Test match preparation in the weeks leading to the Ashes.
Travis Head's Upcoming Match
Head will team up with Alex Carey for South Australia in the Sheffield Shield match against Tasmania starting November 10. It will be his first first-class match since the West Indies tour in July, offering an opportunity to regain form following a subdued performance in white-ball cricket.
"The group’s red-ball focus underscores Australia’s emphasis on Test preparation, particularly with the Ashes less than three weeks away."
Summary: Travis Head leaves the T20 squad to sharpen his red-ball skills in Sheffield Shield, joining senior players in prioritizing Test readiness for the imminent Ashes series.