Big Bash League 2026: Australia Ashes players availability – Smith, Starc & Carey to play but no Head

Selected players from Australia’s Ashes squad – including stand-in captain Steve Smith – will play in the Big Bash from this weekend, but batter Travis Head will play no part.

Smith, wicketkeeper Alex Carey and batters Marnus Labuschagne and Usman Khawaja are among the players that will return this weekend and be available for their sides final three group games and the play-offs.

Bowlers Michael Neser and Mitchell Starc will be available for Brisbane Heat and Sydney Sixers from the 14 and 16 January respectively meaning they can play in two group matches.

Head has been rested before February’s T20 World Cup, while pace bowler Scott Boland will also play no part.

All-rounder Cameron Green will also not feature as he is not contracted to any side.

Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon all miss out as they continue to recover from injuries.

From Saturday, 10 January

Brisbane Heat: Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne

Melbourne Renegades: Brendan Doggett

From Sunday, 11 January

Sydney Sixers: Steve Smith, Todd Murphy

Hobart Hurricanes: Jake Weatherald, Beau Webster

Adelaide Strikers: Alex Carey (Adelaide Strikers)

Perth Scorchers: Josh Inglis (Perth Scorchers)

From Wednesday, 14 January

Brisbane Heat: Michael Neser

From Friday, 16 January:

Sydney Sixers: Mitchell Starc

Not available

Nathan Lyon (hamstring injury), Scott Boland and Travis Head (both managed), Cameron Green (uncontracted)