Brisbane Heat, gearing up for the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL), has received a significant boost with the availability of Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne for their season opener against Melbourne Stars on December 7. Both players, fresh from their success in the ODI World Cup, have committed to play the initial fixture before joining the national camp for the Test series against Pakistan and West Indies.
Usman Khawaja, set to turn 37 next month, has been sparingly active in recent times, featuring in a couple of Sheffield Shield games for Queensland. However, eager to contribute to the Heat before embarking on national duties, Khawaja aims to showcase his form ahead of the Test series.
Marnus Labuschagne, having played a crucial role in Australia’s World Cup triumph against India, brings confidence and momentum to the Heat. His availability aligns with his commitment to stay in contention for the T20 World Cup scheduled for June next year.
While the inclusion of Khawaja and Labuschagne strengthens the Heat’s lineup, the team will miss the services of Matthew Renshaw, Nathan McSweeney, Jimmy Peirson, and Michael Neser. These players have been called up to the Prime Minister’s XI squad for a warm-up game against Pakistan before the Test series.
For the Melbourne Stars, World Cup winners Glenn Maxwell and Marcus Stoinis are expected to be available for the opening game, despite a demanding schedule. Pakistani duo Haris Rauf and Usama Mir will also represent the Stars. Haris Rauf, who withdrew from Pakistan’s Test squad, is set to participate in the BBL.
The BBL 13 opener promises an exciting clash between Brisbane Heat and Melbourne Stars, with the inclusion of key players adding to the anticipation.
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