Travis Head released from T20I squad to prepare for Ashes via Sheffield Shield
Travis Head has been released from Australia’s T20 International squad for the final two matches against India to play for South Australia in the Sheffield Shield, as part of his preparation for the upcoming Ashes series starting November 21 in Perth.
According to cricket.com.au, selectors made the decision to let several senior players balance workloads and fine-tune their red-ball skills before the highly anticipated Test season. Head had featured in the first three T20Is of the five-match series before being offered a choice to continue or return to domestic first-class cricket. He chose the latter.
Several senior teammates are also returning to Sheffield Shield action this week. Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood will represent New South Wales in their match starting Monday, while Cameron Green is set to resume bowling for Western Australia against Queensland at the WACA Ground.
“The group’s red-ball focus underscores Australia’s emphasis on Test preparation, particularly with the Ashes less than three weeks away.”
Head will play alongside Alex Carey for South Australia against Tasmania from November 10. This will be his first first-class appearance since the West Indies tour in July, offering a valuable opportunity to regain form after a quiet white-ball stint.
Author’s Summary
Selectors released Travis Head from T20 duties to prioritize red-ball practice ahead of the Ashes, joining fellow senior players returning to the Sheffield Shield.