Australia’s 2025 Champions Trophy campaign has been rocked by another withdrawal as star pacer Mitchell Starc has decided to withdraw from the touring party for personal reasons. With the tournament set to begin on 19th February, Australia has confirmed a significantly reshuffled 15-player squad, with Steven Smith stepping in as captain in place of the injured Pat Cummins and Mitchell Marsh.
Mitchell Starc’s decision to pull out of the Champions Trophy has come as another major blow to the Australian team. The left-arm fast bowler had been in some discomfort during the second Test against Sri Lanka in Galle, and while the reasons for his withdrawal remain private, the impact on Australia’s pace attack is undeniable. His absence, alongside the earlier injury-enforcedexclusions of Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Marsh, leaves the team without their entire frontline bowling unit for the tournament.
While Mitchell Starc’s regular fixtures record is exceptional, he has the tendency to elevate his game during ICC events, which is sure to hurt Australia’s chances in the upcoming Champions Trophy. Cricket Australia, however, was quick to throw their support behind their star pacer.
“We understand and respect Mitch’s decision,” said George Bailey, the chair of selectors. “Mitch’s commitment to Australian cricket has always been evident, and while his absence is a setback, it provides an opportunity for another player to step up and shine.”
Meanwhile, with both Cummins and Marsh unavailable, Steve Smith will take over the captaincy for the Champions Trophy. Smith, who recently led Australia to a 2-0 victory in the Test series against Sri Lanka, is no stranger to the role and will hope to guide his team through the challenges posed by the tournament.
In the wake of these injuries and retirements, Australia’s squad has undergone a substantial overhaul. Five new players have been drafted into the 15-man group, including Sean Abbott, Ben Dwarshuis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Spencer Johnson, and Tanveer Sangha. Additionally, Cooper Connolly will join the squad as a travelling reserve.
Australia’s Champions Trophy Squad
| Player |
|---|
| 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 |
Australia is preparing for the tournament with two ODIs against Sri Lanka in Colombo before heading to the Champions Trophy, where they face a challenging group stage. Their first match will be against England on 22nd February, followed by encounters with South Africa on 25th February and Afghanistan on 28th February.
With a squad reshaped by injury and retirement, Australia’s journey to the 2025 Champions Trophy will be one of resilience, as they aim to secure their place in the tournament’s final stages.
