The Australian Test players will return to the Big Bash League following a resounding 4-1 series win in the Ashes 2025-26. Cricket Australia has confirmed the availability of Ashes legends Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, and Marnus Labuschagne, among others.
Much of the focus, however, is on Mitchell Starc, who will return to the Sydney Sixers in the Magenta jersey after an 11-year absence.
The left-arm bowler, who was also named Player of the Series in the Ashes, stated that he is close to joining the Sydney Sixers. He will be available starting January 16.
“I’m certainly not looking two years down the road just yet. I’ll pull on the magenta with the man (Smith) next to me(Steve Smith). We’ll see if we can help (the Sixers) get to another final. Other than the BBL, I haven’t got too many plans other than a bit of golf”, claimed Starc while speaking at a press conference.
Fresh off claiming the #Ashes 4-1, Mitch Starc and Steve Smith are set to pull on the magenta in #BBL15 🩷 pic.twitter.com/YgH0Ah5efd
— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 8, 2026
Apart from Starc, recently retired Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne are set to join the Brisbane Heat from January 10. Steve Smith, who captained Australia in the absence of Pat Cummins, too, will join the Sydney-based team along with spinner Todd Murphey from January 11.
Head to prioritise T20 World Cup
While other test stars are joining the BBL, Travis Head will not be playing the tournament as part of the workload management, with selectors keen to manage his schedule after a hectic international schedule. The southpaw had a stellar Ashes, scoring 629 runs at an average of 62.9.
Cameroon Green, too, will be unavailable as he does not have an active BBL contract. Australia will play their opening match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup on February 11 against Ireland.
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