Australia dented by injuries ahead of Champions Trophy: Squad analysis
What's the story
The Australian team has been dented by multiple injuries ahead of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, where they will face England, South Africa, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. The team's composition includes several high-profile players such as Travis Head, Steve Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, and Alex Carey. However, four of their players from the initially-announced squad will miss the competition. Here we analyse their squad.
Injuries
Injuries force Cummins, Hazlewood out of Champions Trophy
Pat Cummins, the team's regular captain, has been ruled out with an ankle injury. Josh Hazlewood is also out of the tournament due to a calf injury. These injuries have compelled Australia to make major changes to their original squad for the Champions Trophy. Cummins and Hazlewood's ousters have also significantly weakend their bowling as Mitchell Starc will now lead an inexperienced pace attack.
More changes
Marsh injured, Stoinis retired
All-rounder Mitchell Marsh has also been ruled out with a back injury. In a surprising turn of events, Marcus Stoinis announced his retirement. These developments have further complicated Australia's squad selection for the upcoming tournament. Copper Connolly is tipped to replace Marsh while Beau Webster is likely to step in for Stoinis. However, both these all-rounders lack experience and this could dent Australia's combination.
Weaknesses
Australia's potential challenges in the tournament
Despite boasting some prominent names, Australia could face challenges in the Champions Trophy. Most of the players haven't played many ODIs of late, which could make it difficult for them to transition into this shorter format. If they don't adapt quickly in their opening match, it could spell trouble for them due to the tournament's condensed schedule. Adding to the misery, Marnus Labuschagne, one of their key batters, has been out of touch lately.
Batting
Smith, Head to lead batting unit
Veteran batters Steve Smith and Travis Head will have the onus of scoring big runs. The former is also most likely to lead the team in Cummins's absence. Both players are known to tackle spin well which will be fruitful on Asian tracks. Moreover, Head scored a hundred in the 2023 World Cup final against India, the preceding ICC event in the ODI format. Meanwhile, Glenn Maxwell will hold the key in the middle order.
Opportunities
Onus on Zampa to shine
The tournament's venue in Pakistan is likely to provide spin-friendly conditions, giving spinners such as Adam Zampa a chance to shine. However, he is the only specialist spinner in the squad. Hence, Maxwell would be required to contribute significantly with the ball. Notably, Australia have been drawn in a tough group with England, Pakistan, Afghanistan and South Africa. This means there won't be any easy matches for them in the competition.