Mitchell Starc Drops Bombshell on Champions Trophy Exit

For the 2025 Champions Trophy, Australian pacer Mitchell Starc withdrew from the squad, citing lingering ankle discomfort and personal reasons. Starc, who played seven consecutive Test matches, including the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and a Sri Lanka tour, emphasized prioritizing his fitness for the upcoming World Test Championship (WTC) final against South Africa in June. He also acknowledged his Indian Premier League (IPL) commitments but stressed that the Test final remained his primary focus.

In Starc’s absence, Australia’s bowling attack saw the inclusion of Spencer Johnson, Ben Dwarshuis, and Nathan Ellis. Despite missing key pacers like Starc, Pat Cummins, and Josh Hazlewood, Australia dominated their Champions Trophy opener against England. However, their second group-stage match against South Africa was abandoned due to rain, making their semi-final qualification dependent on a must-win game against Afghanistan on February 28. He said:

There are a few different reasons, some personal views. I had a bit of ankle pain through the (Border-Gavaskar) Test series, so I just need to get that one right. Obviously, we have the Test (Championship) final coming up and a West Indies tour after that. There is some IPL cricket as well, but the main one at the top of my mind is the Test final… get my body right, play some cricket in the next couple of months and then get ready to go for the Test final. We find ourselves sitting with a chance to win it for the second time on the trot.

Starc’s withdrawal highlights Australia’s strategic planning, prioritizing long-term goals over short-term tournaments. Meanwhile, Australia’s batting unit has stepped up, ensuring they remain competitive in the Champions Trophy. With their next crucial match approaching, the team’s adaptability without their senior pacers will be tested.