Australia’s hopes for a strong performance in the 2025 Champions Trophy have taken a major hit with the withdrawal of star fast bowler Mitchell Starc. The news came just days before the tournament, which is set to begin on February 19. Starc, one of Australia’s most reliable and potent bowlers, decided to step down from the squad for personal reasons. His absence is a blow not only because of his skill but also because of his remarkable performances in past ICC tournaments.
Starc, known for his ability to shine in big tournaments, had been dealing with discomfort during the second Test against Sri Lanka in Galle. While the exact reasons behind his withdrawal remain private, his absence leaves Australia without one of their key pace bowlers. This news adds to the earlier withdrawals of other key players like Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Marsh due to injuries, further weakening the team’s pace attack for the Champions Trophy.
The Australian team now faces a significant challenge as it heads into the tournament without its usual frontline bowling attack. This comes at a time when the team was already coping with injuries and the retirement of some seasoned players. Cricket Australia has expressed full support for Starc’s decision, with George Bailey, the chair of selectors, saying that while the loss is unfortunate, it opens up a chance for another player to step up and make a difference.
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With both Pat Cummins and Mitchell Marsh unavailable, Steve Smith will take on the captaincy role for the Champions Trophy. Smith, who has previously captained Australia to success, including leading the team to a 2-0 Test series win against Sri Lanka, will be tasked with guiding the team through the challenges of the tournament.
As a result of these injuries and retirements, the Australian squad for the Champions Trophy has undergone a significant reshuffle. Cricket Australia has made several changes to the lineup, bringing in five new players: Sean Abbott, Ben Dwarshuis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Spencer Johnson, and Tanveer Sangha. These fresh faces will hope to make an impact and help Australia through a tough group stage in the tournament.
Australia’s Champions Trophy squad now looks like this:
- Steve Smith (C)
- 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 Short
- Adam Zampa
With preparations underway, Australia will play two One Day Internationals (ODIs) against Sri Lanka in Colombo before heading to the Champions Trophy. The team will face a tough group stage with games against England, South Africa, and Afghanistan. The first match will be against England on February 22, followed by encounters with South Africa on February 25, and Afghanistan on February 28.
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