Australia’s fast-bowling stocks have taken another hit, with veteran pacer Mitchell Starc withdrawing from the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy for personal reasons. His absence leaves the reigning world champions without their three frontline quicks for the ODI tournament in Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates.
Starc’s withdrawal follows injuries to pace spearheads Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, forcing Australia to rely on a makeshift bowling attack featuring Sean Abbott, Spencer Johnson, Ben Dwarshuis, and Nathan Ellis.
Selectors also confirmed Starc will miss the two warm-up ODIs against Sri Lanka in Colombo, the first of which begins later on Wednesday.
Bailey: “We Understand and Respect Mitch’s Decision”
Chairman of selectors George Bailey acknowledged Starc’s absence as a setback but remained optimistic about the team’s depth.
“His loss is of course a blow for the Champions Trophy campaign but does provide an opportunity for someone else to make a mark on the tournament,” Bailey said in a statement.
Smith to Lead Depleted Australia
With Cummins ruled out, Steve Smith will captain the squad, fresh off leading Australia to a 2-0 Test series sweep over Sri Lanka.
Australia is also missing Mitchell Marsh (injured) and all-rounder Marcus Stoinis, who recently retired from ODIs. To compensate for these losses, selectors have included power-hitter Jake Fraser-McGurk, who could slot in at No. 3, while Matt Short and Travis Head are likely to open.
Legspinner Tanveer Sangha has also been included, having last played an ODI in September 2023 against India.
Australia’s Champions Trophy Campaign
The Aussies kick off their tournament against England in Lahore on February 22, followed by group-stage clashes against South Africa and Afghanistan.
Australia’s Champions Trophy Squad:
- 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 Short, Adam Zampa.
With a weakened bowling attack and an untested pace quartet, Australia faces a tough road ahead in their quest for more ODI silverware.
