Megadeth kick Newsted from sideshows

Newsted, the eponymous band of former Metallica bassist Jason Newsted have been kicked off the bill of their planned Soundwave sideshows with Megadeth and Volbeat.

Festival boss AJ Maddah has confirmed headliners Megadeth had requested Newsted be dropped from the pair of shows, taking place in Melbourne and Sydney later this month. In their place, death metallers Whitechapel will join the triple-bill.

A brief statement from the festival reads: "At the request of Megadeth, Newsted will not be playing the above Sidewave shows and instead will be replaced by Whitechapel."

Check out dates below, tickets are on sale now.

MEGADETH w/ VOLBEAT & WHITECHAPEL
Tuesday, February 25 - UNSW Roundhouse, Sydney - AA (Tickets via Ticketek)
Thursday, February 27 - The Forum, Melbourne - 18 (Tickets via Ticketmaster)