Australia were dealt with massive twin blows ahead of the Champions Trophy as star pacers Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood have been ruled out of the global tournament. The news comes after the sudden shock retirement of Marcus Stoinis from ODIs. Now, double-time champions Australia will have to make four changes to the Champions Trophy squad. Apart from Cummins and Hazlewood, even Mitchell Marsh is ruled out of the showpiece event due to a back injury.
Initially, Cummins was named in the preliminary 15-member squad as head coach Andrew McDonald was sure about skipper recovering from ankle issues. But alas, that was not to be. Meanwhile, Hazlewood has developed a hip problem which has made his recovery time longer than usual.
"Cummins has not recovered from the ankle issue that plagued him towards the end of the recent Border Gavaskar Trophy Test series against India, while Hazlewood has developed a hip problem following earlier hip and calf strains," a report in cricket.com.au wrote.
"Both fast bowlers will require an extended period of rehabilitation before they receive the all-clear to return to play, which places a question mark over their involvement in the Indian Premier League which follows the Champions Trophy."
Also Read: Marcus Stoinis Retires From ODI's! Australia to Name a Replacement in Champions Trophy 2025 Squad
Josh Inglis in fray to lead Australia in Champions Trophy
With Cummins ruled out, Australia are likely to give captaincy reins to Josh Inglis. The wicketkeeper-batter had led a second-string team against Pakistan in the ODI series preceding the Border Gavaskar Trophy. Apart from Inglis, Glenn Maxwell is also in the fray to lead Australia in the global event.
Australia are placed in Group B alongside Afghanistan, Souh Africa and England. The two-time ICC Champions Trophy winners will begin the campaign by playing their first match against arch rivals England on February 22.
