With Michael Clarke yet to recover from a thumb injury, Michael Hussey will assume vice-captaincy of the squad for the remainder of the South African series, Cricket Australia said.

"The only change the National Selection Panel has made to the squad is Mitchell Johnson returning after having his workload managed for the two KFC Twenty20 Internationals and the first two Commonwealth Bank Series games," NSP Chairman Andrew Hilditch said.

"With Mitchell returning, the unfortunate fast bowler to depart the squad is Ryan Harris. From a positive point of view for Ryan, we have been very impressed with his efforts and attitude during limited opportunities and we are certain he will continue to push for Australian selection in the future," Hilditch added.

Johnson was rested from Australia's two Twenty20 and two ODI matches against South Africa. Australia plays South Africa in the third Commonwealth Bank Series match in Sydney on Friday.

Meanwhile, CA has decided that no member of this squad would be released to play in either the preliminary final or the final of the KFC Twenty20 Big Bash.

"Cricket Australia, the National Selection Panel and Australian team coaching staff have mutually agreed that the sole focus needs to be on the preparation and performance of this group in Australian colours during what is an important and tough series against the number two ranked one-day international team in the world, South Africa," CA Acting CEO Michael Brown said.

"As such no players from this squad will be released for either the preliminary final or the final of the KFC Twenty20 Big Bash to be played this Wednesday or Saturday respectively," he added.