Australia’s preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy have hit a setback as key pacers Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood face fitness concerns. Head coach Andrew McDonald revealed that Cummins is “hugely unlikely” to recover in time, while Hazlewood’s availability remains uncertain. Their injuries have forced selectors to consider alternative options for both a fast bowler and a stand-in captain.
Cummins’ Injury Concerns
Cummins, who was named captain in Australia’s provisional 15-man squad, has not traveled with the team to Sri Lanka. He is attending the birth of his second child but has also been recovering from an ankle injury sustained during the five-Test series against India. His rehabilitation is taking longer than expected, making his participation in the tournament highly unlikely.
“Pat hasn’t been able to resume bowling, so he’s heavily unlikely,” McDonald stated. This means Australia must appoint a new captain before the tournament begins.
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Hazlewood’s Fitness in Doubt
Hazlewood is also battling fitness issues. He suffered a side strain during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and later sustained a calf strain, ruling him out of the series. The team is still awaiting medical updates on his current condition, but his chances of playing remain uncertain.
Australia’s Captaincy Dilemma
With Cummins unlikely to play and Mitchell Marsh already ruled out due to a lower back injury, Australia needs a new leader for the tournament. Marsh had previously captained the ODI side in Cummins’ absence, but his injury leaves the selectors with two primary options—Steve Smith and Travis Head.
“Steve has done a great job leading the Test side in Sri Lanka and has experience in ODI cricket,” McDonald said. “It’ll be between him and Travis Head.”
Selection Challenges for Australia
Australia now faces multiple selection headaches. Losing both Cummins and Hazlewood would be a massive blow to their fast-bowling attack. The team must find suitable replacements before their first match against England in Lahore on February 22.
Before heading to Pakistan, Australia will play two ODIs in Sri Lanka. These matches will be crucial in finalizing the squad and leadership roles for the Champions Trophy.
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