Mitchell Starc Withdraws from Champions Trophy 2025 for Personal Reasons
The Champions Trophy 2025, set to be held in Pakistan, is just a few days away. However, world champions Australia are facing increasing challenges as several key players have withdrawn from the tournament. The latest addition to this list is veteran fast bowler Mitchell Starc, who has pulled out due to personal reasons. His absence is a major setback for the Australian team, which already looks weakened after multiple player withdrawals.
So far, Starc has not issued an official statement regarding his withdrawal. While he cited personal reasons, some speculate that security concerns in Pakistan might have influenced his decision. Cricket Australia has fully supported Starc, stating, “We respect his decision. Starc has always put his country first, even when dealing with injuries. His absence is a big loss, but it provides another player with an opportunity to impress.”
Smith to Lead Australia; Five Changes in the Squad
Australia will also be without captain Pat Cummins, who is still recovering from an ankle injury sustained during the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Josh Hazlewood is dealing with a back problem, while Mitchell Marsh was ruled out due to injury. Additionally, Marcus Stoinis recently announced his sudden retirement from ODI cricket. As a result, Australia has made five changes to their Champions Trophy squad.
Shaun Abbott, Ben Dwarshuis, Spencer Johnson, Jake Fraser-McGurk, and Tanvir Sangha have been named as replacements. Abbott, Dwarshuis, and Johnson are fast bowlers, while Sangha, an Indian-origin leg-spinner, will strengthen the spin attack. Fraser-McGurk, on the other hand, is an opening batsman. Meanwhile, 21-year-old spinner and all-rounder Cooper Connolly has been selected as a reserve player.
Australia’s Squad for Champions Trophy 2025
Main Squad:
Steve Smith (captain), Shaun Abbott, Alex Carey, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Aaron Hardy, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Tanvir Sangha, Matthew Short, Adam Zampa.
Reserves:
Cooper Connolly
