Australia’s preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 have been dealt a significant blow, with captain Pat Cummins “hugely unlikely” participating due to injury. According to Australia’s head coach Andrew McDonald, fellow pacer Josh Hazlewood is also doubtful.
Cummins Ruled Out Due to Injury
Pat Cummins, who had earlier skipped the Test tour of Sri Lanka for the birth of his second child, is now struggling with an ankle problem. His absence means Australia will have to name a new captain for the crucial ODI tournament.
Speaking to radio station SEN, McDonald stated, “Patty is hugely unlikely, which is a bit of a shame, and we’ve also got Josh Hazlewood, who is battling [to be fit] at the moment. So that medical information will land over the next couple of days, and we’ll be able to shore that up and let everyone know the direction.”
Australia’s Captaincy Dilemma
With Cummins out, Australia faces the challenge of selecting a new leader for the tournament, which begins on February 19 in Pakistan and the UAE. Vice-captain Mitchell Marsh, who leads the T20 side, has already been ruled out due to a back injury.
Steve Smith and Travis Head are the leading candidates for the captaincy. McDonald added, “Steve Smith and Travis Head are the two that we’ve been having conversations with while we’ve been building out that Champions Trophy team along with Pat back home. They’ll be the two that we look at for that leadership post.”
Injury Concerns for Hazlewood
Josh Hazlewood’s participation is also in doubt as he continues to recover from calf and side strains. He was limited to just two Tests in the recent series against India due to these issues.
Impact on Australia’s Champions Trophy Campaign
Cummins’s absence will undoubtedly affect Australia’s chances in the ICC Champions Trophy. As one of the most experienced bowlers and leaders in world cricket, his unavailability means the team must adjust both in leadership and bowling strategy.
With Pakistan co-hosting the prestigious tournament alongside the UAE, local fans will be keenly watching how the defending world champions adapt to these challenges.
