As the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy approaches, Australia finds itself in a difficult situation, losing four key players to injuries.
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The marquee tournament, set to begin on February 19 in Pakistan, was expected to feature Australia’s strongest squad, but multiple setbacks have now left them in jeopardy.
With Mitchell Marsh, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Marcus Stoinis all sidelined, Australia must quickly rethink their approach.
MORE: Champions Trophy 2025: Updated list of injured & missing players
Which players are missing from Australia’s squad?
Mitchell Marsh ruled out with a back injury
One of the biggest setbacks for Australia is the loss of all-rounder Mitchell Marsh due to a severe back injury. His condition is serious enough to rule him out for the rest of the domestic season. His absence in the Champions Trophy leaves a major gap in Australia’s batting and all-round options.
MORE: Champions Trophy 2025 schedule, fixtures, match times
Aaron Hardie and Marcus Stoinis struggling with injuries
Both Aaron Hardie and Marcus Stoinis are dealing with fitness concerns. Hardie has been struggling with a quad injury, while Stoinis has experienced hamstring tightness. Adding to the concerns, Stoinis has already announced his retirement from ODI cricket.
Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood out of contention
Captain Pat Cummins has been ruled out due to an ankle injury, leaving Australia without their key fast bowler and on-field leader. Steve Smith and Travis Head are emerging as potential stand-in captains.
Meanwhile, Josh Hazlewood continues to recover from a persistent hip injury. After missing the latter part of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and the entire Sri Lanka tour, he has now been ruled out of the Champions Trophy as well.
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Who could replace the missing Australian players?
Beau Webster as a potential all-rounder replacement
With Marsh out, Beau Webster is a strong contender to step in. The 31-year-old has gained recognition for his ability to contribute with both bat and ball in domestic cricket. His impressive performances for Tasmania make him a viable option for the Champions Trophy squad.
Jake Fraser-McGurk is a wildcard choice
While Fraser-McGurk is primarily a batter, his aggressive style could be useful in subcontinent batting conditions. The 22-year-old has experience from playing in leagues like the IPL and ILT20.
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Spencer Johnson as a replacement for Cummins
Spencer Johnson’s left-arm pace and ability to swing the new ball make him a suitable replacement for Cummins. Although he lacks extensive international experience, his strong performances in domestic cricket suggest he could be a useful asset in the Champions Trophy.
Xavier Bartlett as a pace option for Hazlewood
For Hazlewood’s role, Australia may turn to Xavier Bartlett, a promising pacer known for his ability to extract movement with the new ball. His ODI debut against West Indies showcased his potential.
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