Cricket: Hughes ditches Big Bash to work on game

Phil Hughes of Australia leaves the field after being dismissed by Chris Martin of New Zealand. Photo / AP

Under-siege Australian opener Phil Hughes has pulled out of the Big Bash League to focus on improving his form in the extended version of the game.

Hughes is almost certain to lose his spot in the Australian side for the upcoming Boxing Day Test against India after a string of low scores in the two-Test campaign against New Zealand.

Hughes was due to play for Sydney Thunder, who start their BBL campaign against Melbourne Stars on Saturday, but will instead by-pass the tournament.

He has been afforded one last chance to fight for his Test spot when he plays for the Chairman's XI in a a three-day game against India in Canberra starting on Monday.

"Following my performances over the last few months, I have decided that, right now, I need to be completely focused on my first-class cricket career," Hughes said in a statement.

"I'm obviously disappointed that I haven't been able to score the runs in the last few Tests that I know I am capable of and I want to do everything I can to ensure that my game continues to develop."

Hughes said he consulted Test captain Michael Clarke and new coach Mickey Arthur about his desires before Thunder boss John Dyson gave him approval to ditch his Twenty20 commitments.

"Selfishly, it's the right decision for me but I'm obviously concerned that I have made this decision on the eve of the Thunder's first game," Hughes said.

"Everyone has been extremely understanding and I wish the boys all the best for a successful Big Bash season.

"I'm now focusing on next week's Chairman's XI game in Canberra and can't wait to face the Indian bowlers."

Meanwhile Cricket Australia's team performance general manager Pat Howard has outlined a batting camp which will run in Melbourne from December 20-22.

Skipper Michael Clarke, Ricky Ponting, Mike Hussey, and Brad Haddin will join Shane Watson and back-up all-rounder Dan Christian in the camp.

"The camp is designed to complement rather than duplicate the preparation of those batsmen playing in the Chairman's XI in Canberra, which includes David Warner, Phillip Hughes, Usman Khawaja and Ed Cowan," Howard said.

"This camp has been scheduled prior to the Australian Test squad being announced and then coming together on December 22."

Shaun Marsh will also attend the batting camp if he can overcome a back injury.

- AAP