Superstar David Warner will return in Thursday's one-dayer between NSW and South Australia at Adelaide Oval.
Warner suffered a groin strain approximately three months ago during an ODI, which prevented him from taking part in the opening half of Australia's four-Test series against India.
The 34-year-old played the SCG and Gabba Tests, but was restricted by the painful injury that will require ongoing treatment for six to nine months.
The opener took a break after the final Test, sitting out two Sheffield Shield games plus a one-day clash as he concentrated on rehab.
Steve Smith won't fly out with NSW's squad on Wednesday as he continues to manage an arm injury, but Warner has been cleared to play under the captaincy of Pat Cummins on Thursday.
"We all know Davey's quality as a player in all formats and it's great to see him back for the Blues," NSW coach Phil Jaques said.
"He has worked really hard on his rehab and has been great around the group when he's been at training.
"It will be fantastic to have his experience around the team over the coming weeks."
Warner, Smith and other players require a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Cricket Australia to take part in this year's Indian Premier League (IPL), which is slated to start in April and overlap with the end of Australia's domestic season.
CA routinely provides NOCs for the IPL, which falls during players' leave period, unless they are worried about an injury.
CA medicos will keep a close eye on Warner, but being fit enough to play for NSW suggests the veteran will get the green light to captain Sunrisers Hyderabad.
Warner, speaking on Fox Sports last week, revealed he sought advice from athletes who suffered similar tendon injuries.
"They have just said it's a niggle," he said.
"You have just got to teach your brain to not worry about the pain and that it's not going to happen again.
"It's going to aggravate me for the next six to nine months, but I am sure the medicos will help me out."
Australian Associated Press
