Image: Australia needs three replacements for key players at the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 / © NDTV Sports
For the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Australia faces a major setback with captain Pat Cummins and fast bowler Josh Hazlewood likely to miss the tournament due to injuries. This comes after all-rounder Mitchell Marsh was already ruled out, leaving Australia with three key replacements to make before the February 12 squad submission deadline.
The tournament, set to begin on February 19 in Pakistan and Dubai, sees Australia in Group B alongside Afghanistan, England, and South Africa, with the top two teams advancing to the semi-finals.
Australian coach Andrew McDonald confirmed that a new captain might be required if Cummins doesn’t recover in time. Both Steve Smith and Travis Head are being considered for the role, with Smith’s leadership experience giving him an edge. Meanwhile, Hazlewood’s fitness remains a concern, with his medical report expected in the coming days.
Cricket legend Ricky Ponting has suggested Mitchell Owen as a replacement for Marsh, while Sean Abbott and Spencer Johnson are potential options to fill in for Cummins and Hazlewood. With these crucial absences, Australia’s campaign for another ICC trophy faces significant challenges.