Australia’s Champions Trophy hopes have been dealt a major blow with a string of key players sidelined. Mitchell Starc, the spearhead of their pace attack, joins captain Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood on the injury list, leaving a gaping hole in their bowling department. Adding to the Aussies woes, all-rounder Mitchell Marsh is also out of the tournament, and with Marcus Stoinis recently retiring, Australia will be heading to Pakistan with a significantly revamped squad. Veteran Steve Smith will take the reins, marking his return to captaincy in a major tournament for the first time since the infamous sandpaper scandal.
With Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins already injured, Mitchell Starc opting out is a big setback for Australia. While the exact reason isn’t known, Starc had some discomfort while bowling against Sri Lanka in the final Test and bowled only four overs. He has now withdrawn from the Champions Trophy 2025 due to personal reasons.
To strengthen the pace attack, Australia has included Nathan Ellis, Spencer Johnson, and Ben Dwarshuis. However, the team is also missing key all-rounders Mitchell Marsh and Marcus Stoinis, making their campaign even more challenging.
Australia is usually a strong contender in ICC tournaments, but their current situation is worrying. Now, the responsibility of leading a young squad in the Champions Trophy falls on Steve Smith, who is also captaining the team on the Sri Lanka tour. His previous leadership experience will be crucial in guiding the team.
Australia Men’s Team Squad for upcoming Champions Trophy 2025
Australia Champions Trophy squad: 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. Travelling reserve: Cooper Connolly.
Marcus Stoinis Retirement Update
The reason for Marcus Stoinis absence is still unknown, but sources suggest there is major tension between the star all-rounder and the Australia Cricket Board.
It is becoming clear that many cricketers are losing interest in the 50-over format, except for major tournaments. With both Starc and Stoinis opting out of the Champions Trophy, the future of ODIs looks increasingly uncertain.