Australia’s Champions Trophy hopes have suffered a significant blow with Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood ruled out of the tournament.
Australia’s hopes of clinching the Champions Trophy suffered a significant blow on Wednesday, as their renowned pace trio of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood were all ruled out of the tournament.
While Cummins (ankle) and Hazlewood (side and calf injuries) were always doubtful, Starc has also withdrawn for personal reasons.
Steve Smith will take on the role of captain after filling in for Cummins during the two-Test series victory over Sri Lanka earlier this month.
The 15-player squad will also be missing all-rounder Marcus Stoinis, who retired from 50-over cricket last week, and Mitchell Marsh, who was previously excluded due to a back injury.
“The squad has undergone considerable changes over the past month due to some unfortunate injuries and Marcus Stoinis’ retirement,” said chief selector George Bailey.
“The positive side of this is that we’ve been able to call upon players who have enjoyed international experience and success over the last year.
“A solid group of our most seasoned players will form a strong base as we aim to win this edition of the Champions Trophy.”
“We have a variety of options to select our playing XI throughout the tournament, depending on the opposition and conditions we face.”
Starc was the only member of the “Big Three” pace attack to feature in all seven Tests against India and Sri Lanka during the ongoing Australian summer.
Bailey expressed his respect for Starc’s decision, noting that the reasons for his withdrawal would remain private.
“Mitch is highly respected for his dedication to international cricket and the priority he places on performing for Australia,” he said.
“His absence is undoubtedly a setback for the Champions Trophy campaign, but it also gives someone else the chance to make an impact on the tournament.”
Starc will also miss the upcoming two-match ODI series against Sri Lanka, which begins in Colombo later on Wednesday.
With the absence of Australia’s seasoned pace trio, opportunities have arisen for players such as Spencer Johnson, Nathan Ellis, and Ben Dwarshuis.
Aaron Hardie steps in as the seaming all-rounder, while emerging leg-spinner Tanveer Sangha has been added to complement Adam Zampa.
The eight-nation Champions Trophy will take place from February 19 to March 9, across Pakistan and the UAE.
Australia 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.
