Australia’s Champions Trophy misery is dealt with another shock. With only a week left in the mega event, left-arm spearhead Mitchell Starc has pulled out, citing personal reasons. This news has left Australia’s Champions Trophy campaign in distress as 5 players are ruled out of the marquee event.
Steve Smith to lead Australia in Pakistan
Pat Cummins (ankle injury), Josh Hazlewood (hip injury), and Mitchell Starc (personal reasons) have all confirmed their unavailability for the marquee event. Mitchell Marsh was already ruled out due to injury, ahead of the squad announcement, and Marcus Stoinis announced his shocking retirement from ODIs 4 days back.
“We understand and respect Mitch’s decision. Mitch is deeply respected for his commitment to international cricket and the priority he places on performing for Australia.
“His well documented ability to play through pain and adversity, as well as forgoing opportunities in other parts of his career to put his country first should be applauded. His loss is of course a blow for the Champions Trophy campaign but does provide an opportunity to someone else to make a mark on the tournament,”- chairman of selectors George Bailey said.
Bailey also announced that in the absence of five of their core players, experienced Steve Smith will be leading the Australian side in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
Injury replacements named
Cricket Australia has named all 5 replacements for the ICC Champions Trophy. Ben Dwarshius, Tanveer Sangha, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Spencer Johnson, and Sean Abbott have been brought in as injury replacements to the 15-member squad. All-rounder Cooper Connolly will be the only traveling reserve.
Check out the complete 15-member Australian squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
Steve Smith (C), Sean Abbott, Alex Carey, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Aaron Hardie, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Tanveer Sangha, Matthew Short, and Adam Zampa.
Australia will kick off their Champions Trophy campaign against archrivals England on 22nd February at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
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