In a massive blow to Australia’s plans for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, star all-rounder Mitchell Marsh has been ruled out of the tournament due to persistent lower back pain.
The experienced all-rounder, who has been a key player for Australia across formats, last played a single Big Bash League (BBL) match for the Perth Scorchers earlier this month before being sidelined. His absence not only affects Australia’s batting depth but also leaves a void in their pace-bowling all-rounder department.
With Marsh’s exclusion, selectors are now faced with a critical decision to find a suitable replacement before the final squad submission deadline on February 12.
While Australia still boasts a strong squad, the choice of Marsh’s replacement could have a significant impact on the team’s balance and strategy in the high-stakes tournament. The Champions Trophy is just 20 days away, and the excitement for this tournament is at its peak. The Champions Trophy 2025 runs from February 19 to March 9, hosted by Pakistan and Dubai.
Team Australia has geared up for this event and announced their Champions Trophy squad on January 13. The tournament features the top eight ICC-ranked teams divided into two groups, A and B. Australia is placed in Group B alongside South Africa, Afghanistan, and England, a combination that is regarded as one of the most challenging draws.
ALSO READ: Rohit VS Sunil Gavaskar: Did Rohit submit a complaint to BCCI against Gavaskar?
Australia Team squad, led by captain Pat Cummins, includes a wealth of talent and experience:
Pat Cummins (c), Alex Carey, Nathan Ellis, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Sean Abbott (potential replacement for Marsh), Matt Short, Steve Smith, Marcus Stoinis, Mitchell Starc, Adam Zampa
Australia possesses the firepower to emerge as favorites in this championship. It has been a long 15 years since they last lifted the Champions Trophy, and this squad aims to reclaim that glory. Pat Cummins, having recently captained the team through a World Cup victory in India and a Border-Gavaskar Trophy series win after a decade of struggles, is eager to lead his team to success.
FOLLOW US ON OUR FB PAGE
As preparations ramp up, the potential strongest playing XI for Australia could include:
1. Travis Head
2. Alex Carey (Wicket Keeper)
3. Marnus Labuschagne
4. Steve Smith
5. Glenn Maxwell
6. Sean Abbott
7. Marcus Stoinis
8. Pat Cummins (Captain)
9. Josh Hazlewood
10. Nathan Ellis
11. Adam Zampa