Champions Trophy 2025: Mitchell Starc pulls out, Steve Smith to lead Australia

Mitchell Starc has made the surprising decision to skip the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, leaving Australia without their renowned pace trio. The 35-year-old pacer cited personal reasons for his withdrawal, which has come as a blow to Australia’s squad ahead of the prestigious tournament. Alongside Starc, fellow fast bowlers Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood will also be absent from the competition due to injury concerns, leaving the team without their usual heavy artillery in the bowling department.

In addition to the pace-bowling woes, Australia will also be without the services of Mitchell Marsh and Marcus Stoinis, with Stoinis announcing his shock retirement from ODIs just before the tournament. Starc’s withdrawal, although a major setback, has given the team a chance to explore new options, with Spencer Johnson, Ben Dwarshius, Nathan Ellis, and Sean Abbott being called up as replacements.

Starc, who played a vital role in Australia’s 2023 ODI World Cup triumph, will not be commenting on his decision, requesting privacy on the matter. Cricket Australia has expressed full support for the pacer, praising his dedication to the team and his ability to play through injuries in the past. His absence is seen as a significant blow for Australia’s Champions Trophy campaign, but it also presents an opportunity for other players to step up and make their mark on the international stage.

The revised Australian squad, captained by Steve Smith, is now set to begin their Champions Trophy campaign on February 22 against England in Lahore. The squad will feature new faces, including Tanveer Sangha and Aaron Hardie, with Cooper Connolly as a travelling reserve. With a new look and the absence of their key fast bowlers, Australia will need to find new strengths to challenge for the prestigious title.

Australia's Champions Trophy 2025 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.

Post Description:
Mitchell Starc pulls out of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy for personal reasons, leaving Australia without their star pacers. With Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood also sidelined due to injury, Steve Smith’s squad will rely on fresh talent to step up. Discover who’s making the cut for Australia’s Champions Trophy 2025 squad.