February 12, 2025, In a noteworthy blow to Australia Champions Trophy campaign, quick bowler Mitchell Starc has pulled back from the competition due to individual reasons. His nonattendance clears out Australia without its three cutting edge pacers, as Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood have as of now been ruled out due to injuries.
With the competition set to require put in Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates, Australia presently turns to a generally unpracticed pace assault comprising Sean Abbott, Spencer Johnson, Ben Dwarshuis, and Nathan Ellis.
Squad Alterations and Administration Changes
Selectors have affirmed that Steve Smith will captain the group in Cummins nonappearance, new off driving Australia to a 2-0 Test arrangement triumph over Sri Lanka.
The squad will moreover be lost key all-rounders Mitchell Swamp (damage) and Marcus Stoinis, who reported a astonish retirement from ODIs final week. In their nonattendance, Jake Fraser-McGurk has been included and is anticipated to bat at No. 3, whereas Matt Brief and Travis Head are likely to open the innings.
Leg-spinner Tanveer Sangha has also earned a spot within the 15-man squad, having final highlighted in ODIs against India in September 2023.
Selectors Explanation on Starc’s Withdrawal
“We get it and regard Mitch’s choice,” said selector George Bailey in a explanation. “His misfortune could be a blow for our Champions Trophy campaign, but it gives somebody else a chance to step up.”
Starc will moreover be inaccessible for the two warm-up ODIs against Sri Lanka, the primary of which starts afterward nowadays in Colombo.
Australia’s Champions Trophy Fixtures
- February 22: vs. England (Lahore)
- February 25: vs. South Africa (Karachi)
- February 29: vs. Afghanistan (Abu Dhabi)
Despite the setbacks, Australia remains centered on securing another ICC title, with their profundity and versatility set to be tried within the coming weeks.
Full Australia Squad for Champions Trophy 2025
Steve Smith (capt), Sean Abbott, Alex Carey, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Aaron Hardie, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Tanveer Sangha, Matthew Brief, Adam Zampa.
