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Mitchell Starc Withdraws from Champions Trophy; Steve Smith to Lead Australia
Australia’s campaign in the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 has been dealt a major setback as star pacer Mitchell Starc has withdrawn from the tournament due to personal reasons. The left-arm quick, who played both Tests in Galle recently, will also miss the two ODIs in Sri Lanka before the Champions Trophy. In his absence, Steve Smith has been named captain of a restructured Australian squad.
Australia’s Champions Trophy Squad Adjustments
Starc’s Absence and Squad Overhaul
Cricket Australia has respected Starc’s request for privacy, and the board has not disclosed further details regarding his withdrawal. However, his absence, combined with injuries to Pat Cummins (ankle), Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Marsh (back), as well as Marcus Stoinis’s sudden retirement from ODIs, has forced selectors to make significant changes to the squad.
To compensate for these key losses, Australia has introduced five new players into their 15-member squad, with Cooper Connolly named as the traveling reserve.
New Players Added to the Squad
The selectors have opted for a mix of pace, spin, and explosive batting talent to cover all bases:
- Jake Fraser-McGurk (Top-order batter)
- Sean Abbott (Pace-bowling all-rounder)
- Ben Dwarshuis (Left-arm pacer)
- Spencer Johnson (Left-arm fast bowler)
- Tanveer Sangha (Leg-spinner)
Selectors’ Take on Squad Changes
Australia’s Chair of Selectors, George Bailey, acknowledged that losing Starc was a setback but emphasized the opportunity for fresh talent.
“We understand and respect Mitch’s decision. He has always prioritized playing for Australia, often pushing through pain and adversity. His absence is a blow, but it allows others to step up and make an impact in the Champions Trophy.”
Bailey also highlighted the experience of the selected players, noting that many have gained international exposure and success over the last 12 months.
“Despite multiple changes, we still have a strong core of experienced players, which gives us flexibility in forming the playing XI based on opposition and conditions.”
Key Players to Watch in the Australian Squad
Batting Reinforcements
With the addition of Jake Fraser-McGurk, Australia strengthens its top order. His aggressive batting style is expected to provide quick starts in powerplays.
Bowling Attack Adjustments
- Spencer Johnson and Ben Dwarshuis will provide left-arm pace options in Starc’s absence.
- Sean Abbott adds depth to the seam attack as an all-rounder.
- Tanveer Sangha, joining Adam Zampa, gives Australia an additional leg-spin option to exploit spin-friendly pitches in Pakistan.
Australia’s Champions Trophy Schedule
Before their Champions Trophy opener, Australia will play two ODIs in Sri Lanka to finalize their combinations. They begin their Champions Trophy campaign on February 22 against England in Lahore.
Full Australia Squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025
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)
With Starc missing and a new-look squad, Australia faces an intriguing Champions Trophy challenge. The selectors have prioritized flexibility, introducing young players while banking on experienced campaigners like Steve Smith, Glenn Maxwell, and Adam Zampa. The absence of senior pacers raises questions about their bowling strength, but the team remains a strong contender for the title.
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