The 2025/26 KFC BBL season is set to get even more exciting as some of Australia's top cricket stars return to the field, but not all will be making an appearance. Here's the scoop on who's coming back and who's taking a break.
The Speedy Returns:
- Alex Carey (Adelaide Strikers)
- Brendan Doggett (Melbourne Renegades)
- Josh Inglis (Perth Scorchers)
- Usman Khawaja (Brisbane Heat)
- Marnus Labuschagne (Brisbane Heat)
- Todd Murphy (Sydney Sixers)
- Steve Smith (Sydney Sixers)
- Jake Weatherald (Hobart Hurricanes)
- Beau Webster (Hobart Hurricanes)
These players will be rejoining their teams from January 10th onwards, ready to take on the competition after their impressive performances in the Ashes series.
The Short Break Before the Action:
- Michael Neser (Brisbane Heat)
- Mitch Starc (Sydney Sixers)
These two stars will get a well-deserved break before returning to the BBL between January 14th and 16th, ensuring they're fresh and ready for the intense competition ahead.
The Absences:
- Scott Boland (Melbourne Stars)
- Travis Head (Adelaide Strikers)
- Cameron Green (uncontracted)
Unfortunately, these three players will be missing from the BBL due to their recent grueling Ashes campaign. They'll be taking a short period of recovery, with Green managing his workloads after a back surgery.
The BBL's Appeal:
The BBL general manager, Alistair Dobson, praised the season's success, stating, "The KFC BBL|15 season has delivered outstanding cricket and incredible fan experiences, watched by record crowds and broadcast audiences so far." He also thanked the Australian Test players for their commitment to the BBL, highlighting their recent victory in the Ashes series.
Looking Ahead:
Cricket Australia's general manager, Ben Oliver, explained that the team will now focus on preparing for the T20 World Cup. He said, "We are immensely proud of the Australian Men’s Test team and their outstanding result in winning the Ashes." The players' individual recovery plans will ensure they're ready for the upcoming international challenges, including the ICC T20 World Cup.
