Australia on Monday announced its 15-man squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which will be held in Pakistan and the UAE.
While Pat Cummins is named the captain, his participation is uncertain due to ongoing ankle issues, as confirmed by Cricket Australia (CA) chief selector George Bailey.
The squad features three notable changes following Australia’s victory in the 2023 ICC World Cup. Veteran opener David Warner has retired from international cricket, and star all-rounder Cameron Green is sidelined due to back surgery.
Additionally, pacer Sean Abbott has been omitted from the squad. These players have been replaced by Matt Short, Aaron Hardie, and Nathan Ellis.
Jake Fraser-McGurk, seen as a potential successor to Warner, failed to make the squad after an underwhelming performance in recent matches.
However, pacer Josh Hazlewood, recovering from a calf injury, and all-rounder Mitch Marsh, dropped from the Sri Lanka Tests, have been included in the squad.
George Bailey emphasized that the squad is "balanced and experienced," noting the involvement of key players in Australia's previous World Cup and series wins, as well as preparations for varying conditions in Pakistan.
Australia will face England, South Africa, and Afghanistan in the group stage of the tournament, set for February 22, 25, and 28.
Before the Champions Trophy, Australia will play a one-off ODI against Sri Lanka to fine-tune their preparations.
CA also mentioned that changes to the squad could be made up until a week before the first match.
Australia, the 2009 Champions Trophy winners, will look to add another title to their illustrious history.
Preliminary Squad: Pat Cummins (c), Alex Carey, Nathan Ellis, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Matt Short, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa
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