Cricket Australia has announced the preliminary squad of 15 players for the upcoming match ICC Champions Trophy 2025to be held in Pakistan. The squad includes new faces Matt Short and Aaron Hardie, who are preparing to play in their first ICC tournament. His place has also been won by Nathan Ellis, who has been impressive in recent outings.
Pat Cumminsnamed captain, remains a doubt for the tournament due to a lingering ankle problem. He played with the injury for a long time Border Trophy-Gavaskar and can play some matches. Josh Hazlewood, who missed part of the India series with a side strain, has also been included in the squad.
Bailey is confident in the balance of the squad
Men's national team chairman George Bailey expressed confidence in the squad's balance and versatility.
“This is a balanced and experienced squad, with the core having been involved in previous one-day World Cups, the West Indies series, last year's successful tour of the UK and the most recent home series in Pakistan,” Bailey said in a statement. .
Bailey stressed the importance of fitness for the tournament.
“It offers a variety of options for managing the tour depending on the opposition and the conditions that may present themselves in Pakistan,” he added.
Australian Champions Trophy Squad Summary
Australia's preliminary squad features experienced campaigners such as Mitchell StarcSteve Smith and Glenn Maxwellalongside rising stars like Short and Hardie.
However, there are notable omissions. Jake Fraser-McGurka young opener, has been left out after a poor run of form in the Big Bash League (BBL). Fast bowler Sean Abbott also missed out, with the selectors opting for Hardie.
Pat Cummins fitness a concern for Champions Trophy 2025
Cummins' participation in the Champions Trophy remains uncertain. He is currently resting after a grueling Border-Gavaskar Trophy series and will also miss Australia's two-Test series against Sri Lanka to be with his family for the birth of his second child.
Bailey confirmed that the selectors and medical staff will continue to monitor Cummins' progress.
“We'll be working with Pat, the selection panel and the medical team. But I know he's very keen to lead,” Bailey said.
If Cummins is ruled out, Australia could look at one of Mitchell Marsh, Steve SmithTravis Head, or Josh Hazlewood for the captain of the side. All four have led Australia in white-ball cricket in recent years.
Australia's road to the Champions Trophy
Before the tour, Australia will play a one-off ODI against Sri Lanka on February 13, after their two-Test series in the country. The Champions Trophy campaign begins on February 21, with Australia taking on South Africa in Karachi.
Australia have been drawn in Group B alongside South Africa, England and Afghanistan. The team will have to hit the ground running in the 19-day tournament.
Australia preliminary squad for Champions Trophy 2025: Pat Cummins (c), Alex Carey, Nathan Ellis, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Matt Short, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa
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