Champions Trophy: Australia Drafts Connolly as Replacement for Short

Spin-bowling all-rounder Cooper Connolly has been formally added to Australia's squad for the current 2025 Champions Trophy as a cover for injured opener Matthew Short.

Short, who had suffered a left quadriceps injury in Australia's rain-affected Group B game against Afghanistan, has been sidelined from the tournament. Connolly, aged 21, who was initially listed as a travelling reserve, has now been added to the regular squad.

The modification was approved by the ICC Event Technical Committee, with Wasim Khan (ICC General Manager - Cricket), Sarah Edgar (ICC Senior Manager - Events), Usman Wahla (PCB Director - International Cricket Operations), and ex-cricketer Shaun Pollock (Independent Representative) casting their assent.

With Australia to play a high-pressure semi-final against India on Tuesday at the Dubai International Stadium, there is speculation that Connolly, a left-arm spinner, may be in the mix for selection to the playing XI. The slow conditions of the pitch may tempt the Australian team management to strengthen their spin resources.

Now, Australia's spin-bowling assets are leg-spinner Adam Zampa, part-time off-spinner Glenn Maxwell, and Travis Head and Marnus Labuschagne, who can chip in with handy overs. They also have another leg-spinning asset in Tanveer Sangha, who could take the place of a pacer if Australia chooses to play a spin-favouring strategy—like the way India did in their 44-run victory over New Zealand on Sunday.

Short's absence has also provided the opportunity for Jake Fraser-McGurk to join Travis Head at the top of the order. Fraser-McGurk, though, has not done well in ODIs till now, reaching the 16-run mark only once in his limited chances.

Australia's Revised Squad for the 2025 Champions Trophy: