Cricket Australia on January 13 announced Australia's preliminary 15-man squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Matt Short and Aaron Hardie are set to play their first ICC event. Nathan Ellis has been given a chance as well on the back of solid performances.
Pat Cummins has been named in the squad. However, his participation is in doubt given the ankle problem with which he played the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. There is a possibility he may miss a few matches as well. Also, Josh Hazlewood who was ruled out of action during India series due to a side strain has been included in the squad too.
"This is a balanced and experienced squad with the core having been involved in the previous one-day World Cup, the West Indies series, last year's successful tour of the UK and the more recent Pakistan home series," Bailey said in the press release.
"It offers a variety of options for touring management depending on opposition and the conditions that may present in Pakistan."
Australia squad for Champions Trophy -
Pat Cummins (c), Alex Carey, Nathan Ellis, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Matt Short, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa
No place for Fraser-McGurk, Abbott
Australia can make changes to their squad till February 12. Young opener Jake Fraser-McGurk did not find a place in the side as he has struggled for form. Fast-bowling all-rounder Sean Abbott did not make it to the squad as well and made way for Hardie. Meanwhile, the George Bailey-led selection committee has continued to put their faith in Mitchell Marsh who has been struggling to score runs as well.
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Australia to play one-off ODI vs Sri Lanka before mega event
Before the ICC Champions Trophy 2024, Australia will play a single ODI against Sri Lanka on February 13 after the two-Test series. Australia have been placed in Group B alongside England, South Africa and Afghanistan. The two-time Champions Trophy winners will take on South Africa in Karachi in their campaign opener on February 21.