Starc Out, Smith Leads Revised Aussie Squad

Mitchell Starc has withdrawn from the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy due to personal reasons, as confirmed by both Cricket Australia and his wife Alyssa Healy, who clarified that the decision was unrelated to family matters. His exit, along with injuries sidelining Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, leaves Australia without their key pace attack. Steve Smith is set to lead the team, which now includes less experienced bowlers such as Sean Abbott, Spencer Johnson, and Ben Dwarshuis. Despite the setbacks, Australia aims to remain competitive in the tournament, beginning their campaign against England on February 22. The squad also sees the addition of players like Jake Fraser-McGurk and Tanveer Sangha to fill the gaps left by other absent players.