Australia’s Champions Trophy squad hit hard as Cummins, Hazlewood ruled out

Australia’s injury troubles have deepened ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy as captain Pat Cummins and fast bowler Josh Hazlewood have been ruled out due to ankle and hip issues, respectively. Their absence further weakens an already depleted squad, following the withdrawal of all-rounder Mitchell Marsh due to a back injury and the shock ODI retirement of Marcus Stoinis.

The news of Cummins and Hazlewood missing the tournament, reported by cricket.com.au, came on the same day as Stoinis’ retirement announcement. With these setbacks, Australia now needs four replacements, including at least two all-rounders to restore balance to the squad. The final team selection will be confirmed after the ongoing second Test against Sri Lanka in Galle.

Cummins sustained an ankle injury during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where he bowled a tournament-high 167 overs and took 25 wickets. Meanwhile, Hazlewood has been struggling with a hip issue, following side and calf strains that previously kept him out of three Tests in the series. Both pacers will require extensive rehabilitation before being considered for competitive cricket again, casting doubts over their participation in the Indian Premier League (IPL) as well.

Australia’s next major international assignment following the Champions Trophy will be the ICC World Test Championship final against South Africa at Lord’s in mid-June. National selection panel chairperson George Bailey acknowledged the disappointment of losing key players but highlighted that their absence provides opportunities for other talents to step up on the global stage.

With Cummins ruled out, Australia will need a new captain for the tournament. Head coach Andrew McDonald has suggested Steve Smith and Travis Head as possible leadership candidates. Australia is set to open its Champions Trophy campaign with a highly anticipated match against England in Lahore on February 22, followed by fixtures against South Africa and Afghanistan in Rawalpindi on February 25 and 28, respectively.

Australia preliminary squad for Champions Trophy (yet to be finalised): Pat Cummins (c), Alex Carey, Nathan Ellis, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Matt Short, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa.