Australia’s Champions Trophy campaign faces a significant challenge as key pacers Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood have been ruled out due to injuries. This development forces the team to make crucial squad changes ahead of the February 12 deadline. The absence of these senior bowlers, along with other injury concerns, puts Australia in a tough spot as they finalize their squad for the tournament.
Injuries Force Key Squad Changes
Chief selector George Bailey confirmed that both Cummins and Hazlewood are still recovering and will not be available.
To compensate, selectors have added Sean Abbott, Spencer Johnson, and Ben Dwarshuis as pace options. Tanveer Sangha, Cooper Connolly, and Jake Fraser-McGurk have also been brought in to strengthen the spin and batting departments. At least two of the three pacers are expected to be included in the final Champions Trophy squad.
Read:Ā Cummins, Hazlewood Face Injury Doubts Ahead of Champions Trophy
Captaincy Dilemma Amidst Squad Reshuffle
With Cummins out and vice-captain Marsh unavailable, Australia must name a new leader for both the Sri Lanka ODI series and the Champions Trophy. Coach Andrew McDonald confirmed that Steven Smith and Travis Head are the frontrunners for the role.
āSteve Smith and Travis Head are the two we’ve been considering while shaping the Champions Trophy squad. They are the obvious choices,ā McDonald stated.
IPL Participation in Doubt
Both Cummins and Hazlewood will undergo extended rehabilitation and will also miss the ongoing Test series in Sri Lanka. Their participation in the Indian Premier League (IPL) remains uncertain.
Tough Schedule Ahead for Australia
Australia will start a two-match ODI series against Sri Lanka on February 12, the same day as the Champions Trophy squad deadline. However, fielding a full-strength XI might be difficult. Players like Smith, Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Josh Inglis, Alex Carey, and Mitchell Starc are currently playing in the Sri Lanka Test series, leaving little time for travel and adjustment.
Mitchell Starc, due to workload concerns, is unlikely to feature in the ODIs, further weakening the squad. The selectors must strike a balance between experience and fresh talent while ensuring the team remains competitive for the Champions Trophy.
Looking Ahead
Despite these setbacks, Australia remains determined to put together a strong squad. Young players now have an opportunity to prove themselves on the international stage.
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