Australia suffered another setback before their Champions Trophy as fast bowler Mitchell Starc is set to be sidelined from the tournament. This comes with Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood sidelined by injuries. Before that, there were shocking developments regarding Marcus Stoinis’ recent ODI and Mitchell Marsh’s earlier withdrawal.

Cummins is Australia’s first-choice captain and was instrumental in guiding the Yellows to the 2023 World Test Championship and the 2023 World Cup win. However, he suffered an ankle injury during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in January. On the other hand, Hazlewood also suffered from physical problems during the BGT, dealing with hip and calf injuries.

Australia’s Squad Without Mitchell Starc

Pat Cummins Josh Hazlewood and Mitchel Starc

Australia has changed its team based on these injuries. Steve Smith, who once replaced Pat Cummins during the most recent Test series against Sri Lanka, will be the team head. Fresh players like Spencer Johnson, Nathan Ellis, Ben Dwarshuis, and leg spinner Tanveer Sangha will help experienced spinner Adam Zampa. Aaron Hardie plays as the fast bowling allrounder to fill the void Marcus Stoinis and Mitchell Marsh created.

Mitchell Starc’s withdrawal completely removes Australia’s famous pace trio from the tournament. The left-arm fast bowler will miss all seven India-Sri Lanka Tests this summer. Coach George Bailey respected Starc’s decision, emphasizing his devotion to Australian cricket but noting the significant damage his absence would do to the team’s campaign.

Overall, the Champions Trophy has had plenty of setbacks regarding injuries. Pakistan will miss opener Saim Ayub due to an injured ankle. On the other hand, India will miss Jasprit Bumrah, who also suffered an injury during the BGT series against Australia in January.

End Of Rant

Australia’s Champions Trophy run will be challenging without their seasoned all-rounders and main fast bowlers, including Mitchell Starc. After all, it’s not easy to replace the crop of players that won them major titles in 2023, including the World Cup in India. However, they have won the Champions Trophy with a young squad in 2009 under Ricky Ponting. Whether this renovated team can preserve Australia’s cricketing history is yet to be determined. For more fearless sports coverage, visit Stadium Rant.

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