In a big blow for Australia cricket team, Mitchell Starc has been ruled out of the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy. The 2023 ODI World Cup champions will now be entering the tournament without the services of the seasoned trio of Cummins-Starc-Hazlewood. Steve Smith has been named the captain for the Australian side.
No Starc as Australia finalize Champions Trophy squad
As per Cricket Australia, Starc has withdrawn from the tournament due to personal reasons. Australia’s pace attack will now comprise of the inexperienced Spencer Johnson, Nathan Ellis, Sean Abbott and Ben Dwarshuis. Earlier, Cummins, Hazlewood and Mitchell Marsh were ruled out of the tournament due to injuries. Marcus Stoinis had announced his sudden retirement from ODIs, adding to Australia’s headache before the Champions Trophy.
“We understand and respect Starc’s decision. Mitch is deeply respected for his commitment to international cricket and the priority he places on performing for Australia,” chief selector George Bailey said.
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Bailey admitted that Stoinis’ retirement and the injuries forced Australia to make a lot of last minute changes to their squad. However, he is optimistic about the side putting up a good show in Champions Trophy.
“The squad has changed significantly over the past month on the back of some untimely injuries and the retirement of Marcus Stoinis. The upside of that is that we have been able to call on players who have had international exposure and success over the past 12 months,” Bailey added.
Australia squad for Champions Trophy
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. Travelling reserve: Cooper Connolly.
