Australia Suffer Setback Before Champions Trophy, Steve Smith Takes Over as Captain
Australia has faced a major setback ahead of the Champions Trophy, with key fast bowlers, including captain Pat Cummins, ruled out. Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Cummins will be missing from the squad, significantly impacting the team’s preparations. While Cummins and Hazlewood are nursing injuries, Starc has withdrawn due to personal reasons. In Cummins’ absence, star batsman Steve Smith has been appointed as the new captain.
Smith recently led Australia in two Test matches against Sri Lanka, securing victories in both encounters. Meanwhile, Australia will also be without all-rounder Marcus Stoinis, who recently announced his retirement from ODIs, and Mitchell Marsh, who is recovering from an injury.
Chief selector George Bailey stated that frequent injuries over the past month, along with Stoinis’ retirement, necessitated changes to the squad. However, he expressed confidence in the team’s experienced players, believing they provide a strong foundation for success in the Champions Trophy. Bailey also mentioned that Australia has multiple options to adjust the squad based on opponents and playing conditions.
Bailey acknowledged that Starc’s absence is a significant setback but expressed hope that his replacement would leave a mark on the tournament. Notably, Starc will also miss the upcoming two-match ODI series against Sri Lanka.
The Champions Trophy, featuring eight teams, will be hosted in Pakistan, with India’s matches set to be played in the UAE. The tournament is scheduled to begin on February 19 and conclude on March 9.
Australia Squad for the Champions Trophy:
Steve Smith (Captain), 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.
