Mitchell Starc has withdrawn from the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 due to personal reasons. His absence means that Australia will be without its frontline fast bowlers for the tournament, including Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, who are also out due to injuries. Marcus Stoinis had also retired from the ODI format.
Cricket Australia confirmed the news, stating that Starc has requested privacy and will not be commenting on his decision. However, there are reports that he was struggling with a left ankle issue during the second Test against Sri Lanka in Galle.
According to Cricket Australia, Starc will also be unavailable for the two-game ODI Series in Sri Lanka.
George Bailey, Australia’s chief selector, said they respect Starc’s decision, acknowledging his commitment to international cricket. He added that while Starc’s absence is a blow to the Champions Trophy campaign, it gives another player an opportunity.
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With Starc, Cummins, and Hazlewood unavailable, Australia has included Sean Abbott, Spencer Johnson, and Ben Dwarshuis in the squad. Steve Smith will captain Australia in the tournament.
Australia’s Champions Trophy Squad:
- Steve Smith
- 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
Traveling reserve: Cooper Connolly
