Australia has suffered a major setback ahead of the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy as star pacer Mitchell Starc has withdrawn from the tournament due to personal reasons. Cricket Australia confirmed the news on Wednesday, stating that Starc has the full support of the board and his teammates.
"Mitchell Starc has withdrawn from the tournament for personal reasons, with the support of Cricket Australia and the Australian men's team. He will also not be available for the two-game ODI series in Sri Lanka leading up to the Champions Trophy," read the official statement from Cricket Australia.
With Starc’s absence, five new players have been added to the squad: Sean Abbott, Ben Dwarshuis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Spencer Johnson, and Tanveer Sangha. Meanwhile, Cooper Connolly has been named as the travelling reserve.
The 15-member squad, led by veteran batter Steve Smith, has seen significant changes in recent weeks due to a series of injuries and the shock retirement of all-rounder Marcus Stoinis earlier this month.
Injury Woes for Australia
Australia’s campaign has already been hit by multiple injuries. Skipper Pat Cummins (ankle), pacer Josh Hazlewood (hip), and all-rounder Mitch Marsh (back) were ruled out earlier, forcing selectors to make several last-minute adjustments.
Chair of selectors George Bailey acknowledged the challenges but remained optimistic about the squad’s strength.
"The squad has changed significantly over the past month due to untimely injuries and Stoinis’ retirement. However, we have been able to bring in players who have gained international exposure and success over the past 12 months," said Bailey.
He added that while Starc’s absence is a setback, it opens the door for other players to step up.
"We understand and respect Mitch’s decision. His commitment to Australian cricket has always been commendable, and he has played through pain and adversity on several occasions. His absence is a blow, but it provides an opportunity for someone else to make a mark on the tournament."
Cricket Australia also requested that Starc’s privacy be respected, stating that the pacer will not be making any further comments regarding his decision.
Australia’s Road to the Champions Trophy
Before the Champions Trophy, Australia will play a two-match ODI series against Sri Lanka in Colombo this week. Their tournament campaign begins on February 22 against England, followed by matches against South Africa on February 25 and Afghanistan on February 28.
Australia's Revised Champions Trophy Squad:
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
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