Heat confirmed on Friday that both Khawaja and Labuschagne would face the Melbourne Stars in the tournament’s opener on December 7.
The pair also have the opportunity to play in the Heat’s second match on December 9 in Adelaide, the same day the Test team is due to enter camp in Perth.
The decision in this regard could ultimately come down to the Heat players not wanting to compromise the duo’s preparations ahead of the first Test against Pakistan on December 14.
“We are delighted to confirm the availability of Usman and Marnus for the opening night of the Big Bash League,” said Brisbane Heat CEO Terry Svenson.
“Both players have had incredible years in the World Test Championship and Ashes, plus Australia’s recent World Cup victory, so it’s great that our home fans will be able to see them in action to start the season.
“Both Usman and Marnus are passionate about playing for the Heat and I’m sure our fans will be eager to see them both in teal before the summer of tryouts begins.”
The call to clear the pair to play in the BBL opener comes after the Heat lost four players to PM’s selection XI. Michael Neser, Matt Renshaw, Jimmy Peirson and Nathan McSweeney were confirmed this week as part of the premier’s squad, for the four-day match starting on December 6 in Canberra.
The AAP understands that the selections for the premier’s match had caused some tension between Cricket Australia and the clubs, who did not want to lose their star players in the tour match.
The Sixers will also lose Todd Murphy due to the Premier’s XI selection against Melbourne Renegades, with no other clubs affected at this time.
