Australia’s Star Pacer Reveals Real Reason for Missing Champions Trophy 2025

Australia, led by Steve Smith, entered the Champions Trophy without several key players, including Mitchell Starc, captain Pat Cummins, Mitchell Marsh, and Josh Hazlewood.

Recently, one of their star pacers opened up about his decision to withdraw from the ongoing tournament, citing a sore ankle as the primary reason but also hinting at “personal views” influencing his choice.

In a candid interview on the Willow Talk podcast, co-hosted by his wife and Australian women’s team captain Alyssa Healy, Mitchell Starc explained that his fitness concerns stemmed from ankle pain he experienced during Australia’s recent two-Test series in Sri Lanka.

“My main concern was fitness after experiencing ankle pain during the (Sri Lanka) Test series,” the 34-year-old said. “I just need to get that one right. Obviously, we have the (World Test Championship) final coming up and a West Indies tour after that.”

However, Starc admitted that fitness wasn’t the only factor behind his absence. “There are a few different reasons, including some personal views,” he revealed, though he refrained from elaborating further. The Champions Trophy is being played under strict security measures, which some speculate may have influenced his decision.

Starc emphasized his focus on upcoming commitments, including the World Test Championship final, the West Indies tour, and potential participation in the IPL.

“The main one at the top of my mind is the Test final. Get my body right, play some cricket in the next couple of months, and then be ready to go for the Test final,” he concluded.

Despite these Starc’s absence, Australia has shown resilience. In their opening match at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, Australia pulled off a stunning victory over England. Their second match against South Africa in Rawalpindi was washed out due to rain, leaving them with a must-win group-stage clash against Afghanistan in Lahore on February 28 to secure a spot in the semi-final.