Australia Champions Trophy 2025 Squad : In a significant development ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Australia has revealed its preliminary 15-member squad, with Pat Cummins set to lead the team. The announcement by George Bailey, Australia’s chief selector, comes with a mix of expected picks and surprising omissions as the team prepares for the highly competitive tournament in Pakistan and the UAE.
Cummins, the ODI captain, is recovering from an ankle injury sustained during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India. Despite his condition and a family break following Australia’s series victory, Cummins remains at the helm of the squad. Joining him is seasoned pacer Josh Hazlewood, who continues to recover from a calf injury. The selection committee emphasized that changes to the squad can be made until February 12.
Major Changes and Surprises
One of the most notable absentees is Jake Fraser-McGurk, who has yet to secure a permanent spot in the national setup. His exclusion makes way for fresh talents Matt Short and Aaron Hardie, both earning their maiden ICC event call-ups. Short, a rising star from domestic cricket, will replace the legendary David Warner, who retired from international cricket earlier in 2024. Warner’s exit marks the end of an illustrious career, opening the door for a new opening partnership.
Cameron Green’s injury has also ruled him out, reshaping Australia’s all-rounder options. Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, and newcomer Aaron Hardie will share the all-rounder responsibilities. Meanwhile, either Josh Inglis or Alex Carey will don the wicketkeeper’s gloves, adding flexibility to Australia’s middle-order strategy.
Sean Abbott, a consistent performer in previous tournaments and bilateral series, was a surprising omission. Instead, Nathan Ellis, rewarded for his impressive form with the Hobart Hurricanes in the Big Bash League, finds a place in the squad.
Australia’s Champions Trophy 2025 Preliminary Squad
- Pat Cummins (c)
- Alex Carey
- Nathan Ellis
- Aaron Hardie
- Josh Hazlewood
- Travis Head
- Josh Inglis
- Marnus Labuschagne
- Mitchell Marsh
- Glenn Maxwell
- Matt Short
- Steve Smith
- Mitchell Starc
- Marcus Stoinis
- Adam Zampa
Key Fixtures
Australia’s Champions Trophy campaign kicks off against traditional rivals England on February 22 in Lahore. Group B also includes South Africa and Afghanistan.
Group Stage Matches:
- February 22: Australia vs England, Lahore
- February 25: Australia vs South Africa, Rawalpindi
- February 28: Australia vs Afghanistan, Lahore
Australia’s last Champions Trophy triumph came in 2009. With a balanced squad featuring seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, the team will aim to reclaim the prestigious title.
