Australia’s preparations for the 2025 Champions Trophy have encountered another significant setback with the announcement that both captain Pat Cummins and fast bowler Josh Hazlewood will miss the tournament. The absence of these two pivotal players poses a considerable challenge for the team, which was already dealing with the shock retirement of Marcus Stoinis from ODIs earlier in the day.
Stoinis’ immediate retirement adds further pressure on the Australian squad as they navigate a tumultuous period leading up to the tournament. Cummins’ situation is particularly crucial since he is the team captain. He has not fully recovered from the ankle injury sustained during the latter stages of the Border Gavaskar Trophy against India.
“Unfortunately, Pat, Josh, and Mitch are managing ongoing injuries and will not be ready for the Champions Trophy,” stated George Bailey, chair of the national selection panel. “While it’s disappointing, it presents a significant opportunity for other players to step up for Australia in an international tournament.”
Hazlewood also continues to struggle with injuries, facing issues with his hip and calf, among others, which have kept him out of contention. The timing of these injuries casts doubt on whether Cummins and Hazlewood will be fit for the Indian Premier League that follows the Champions Trophy, raising concerns about their participation in the lucrative tournament.
In light of these injuries, Australia’s head coach Andrew McDonald previously acknowledged the possibility that neither pace bowler would make it to the Champions Trophy, indicating that a captaincy change might be necessary. With Cummins sidelined, discussions have emerged regarding potential replacements, with McDonald naming Steve Smith and Travis Head as candidates to assume the captaincy role, highlighting the importance of maintaining leadership continuity.
Additionally, allrounder Mitchell Marsh’s ongoing back injury has already led to his withdrawal from the tournament, resulting in four changes to Australia’s original squad.