Australia's reserve allrounder Beau Webster has been released from the Ashes squad to play in the Big Bash League for the Hobart Hurricanes. Josh Inglis, dropped after the Boxing Day Test, will also return to the BBL for the Perth Scorchers.
Both players are expected to rejoin the Australia squad in Sydney after their BBL matches to prepare for the fifth Test starting January 4 at the SCG. Webster, who played seven Tests this year, has been unable to break into the XI since the first Ashes Test in Perth.
Webster may have a genuine chance to reclaim his spot due to Cameron Green's poor form. Green has averaged just 18.66 with the bat in the first four Tests, including a run-out and a caught dismissal in Melbourne. Inglis is less likely for a recall after a top score of 32 in three innings.
Webster will play for the Hurricanes against the Melbourne Renegades on Monday, while Inglis is expected to face the Sydney Thunder on Tuesday night for the Scorchers.
Meanwhile, Usman Khawaja faces a decision on his playing future. The 39-year-old has averaged 30.6 in the Ashes with one half-century. Former fast bowler Brett Lee suggested the Sydney Test could be a fitting farewell for the veteran, who has scored 6206 runs in 87 Tests at an average of 43.39.
