Travis Head released from T20I squad to prepare for Ashes via Sheffield Shield

Travis Head Released from T20I Squad to Prepare for Ashes

Travis Head has been released from Australia’s T20 International squad for the remaining two matches against India to play Sheffield Shield for South Australia, focusing on red-ball preparation ahead of the Ashes series.

Selectors Prioritize Workload Management and Test Prep

The decision, reported by cricket.com.au, reflects selectors’ efforts to balance senior players' workloads and refine their readiness for the Ashes, starting November 21 in Perth. Head participated in the first three T20Is of the five-match series before choosing to return to domestic red-ball cricket instead of continuing with the white-ball squad.

Senior Players Returning to Sheffield Shield

Head joins several experienced teammates resuming first-class cricket this week:

Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood will play for New South Wales starting Monday.
Cameron Green is expected to bowl for Western Australia against Queensland at the WACA Ground.

This focus on red-ball cricket highlights Australia’s strategy to sharpen Test skills with the Ashes less than three weeks away.

Upcoming Match and Form Regain

Travis Head will line up with Alex Carey for South Australia against Tasmania beginning November 10. This marks Head’s first first-class match since the West Indies tour in July, offering a chance to regain form after a subdued white-ball period.

"Head opted for the latter, joining several senior teammates who are also returning to first-class action this week."

Author’s summary: Travis Head’s release from the T20I squad to play Sheffield Shield illustrates Australia’s emphasis on Test readiness ahead of the Ashes, prioritizing workload management and red-ball form recovery.

cricexec — 2025-11-04