Australia's Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood ruled out of Champions Trophy
What's the story
Australia's cricket team has suffered a major setback ahead of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, with star players Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood ruled out due to injuries.
The tournament is set to begin on February 19 in Pakistan.
Australia have suffered multiple blows after all-rounder Mitchell Marsh withdrew due to a back injury. Meanwhile, Marcus Stoinis has announced his ODI retirement with immediate effect.
Injury details
Injuries of Cummins, Hazlewood
Cummins continues to deal with an ankle problem that emerged during the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India.
Hazlewood, meanwhile, is nursing a calf injury. His last competitive appearance was the third Test against India in Brisbane, which ended in a draw.
The Australian side now has a selection headache as they gear up for the global event without these key players.
Selection challenges
Bailey comments on player absences and opportunities
George Bailey, the national selection panel chairman, was disappointed at the players' absences but also viewed it as an opportunity for others.
"Unfortunately Pat, Josh, and Mitch are managing some ongoing injuries and haven't come up in time for the Champions Trophy," he said.
"While disappointing, it does present a great opportunity for other players to perform for Australia in a world event."
Captaincy prospects
Smith, Head likely to lead Australia
In Cummins's absence, either Steve Smith or Travis Head will lead the Australian side in the Champions Trophy.
Their squad for the tournament features Alex Carey, Nathan Ellis, Aaron Hardie, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Matt Short, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, and Adam Zampa.
However, four replacements are yet to be named following these recent developments.
Information
Australia's match-winners across formats
Both Cummins and Hazlewood have been Australia's match-winners across formats. The former led Australia to the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup title in India. Australia also won the ICC World Test Championship final that year. Cummins and Hazlewood have taken a combined total of 281 ODI wickets.
Upcoming matches
Australia's Champions Trophy campaign
Australia will start their Champions Trophy campaign on February 22 against arch-rivals England.
They will face South Africa next on February 25 in Rawalpindi, followed by the Afghanistan game on February 28 in Lahore.
After the 2025 Champions Trophy, Australia will take on South Africa in the 2023-25 WTC final at Lord's in June.
Future fixtures
Australia include few players for SL series
Following these injury blows, Australia have already added a few players for their impending two-match ODI series in Sri Lanka.
These include star opener Jake Fraser-McGurk, pace-bowling all-rounder Ben Dwarshuis, as well as left-arm seamer Spencer Johnson among others.
Australia currently lead the Test series against Sri Lanka 1-0 with one match to go.