Pat Cummins is set to return for Australia’s ICC Champions Trophy campaign in Pakistan next month after missing the Sri Lanka Test tour. The squad, announced on Monday, also includes injured pacer Josh Hazlewood. Captain Cummins skipped the Sri Lanka series, which begins later this month, to be present for the birth of his second child. Reports suggest he is also managing a knee injury. Hazlewood, who struggled with calf and side strains that limited him to just two Tests against India during the summer, has earned a spot in the preliminary 15-man squad for the two-time tournament winners.
Cummins and Hazlewood Return for Australia’s Champions Trophy Squad
Selectors dropped opener Jake Fraser-McGurk from the squad due to his poor form in Australia’s recent one-day series against Pakistan.
Chief selector George Bailey called the squad “balanced and experienced.” He noted that the core players had participated in the previous one-day World Cup, the West Indies series. Last year’s successful UK tour, and the recent home series against Pakistan
“The squad provides flexibility for the touring management to adapt based on the opposition and conditions in Pakistan,” Bailey added.
Australia has announced its squad for the ICC Champions Trophy, with opener Jake Fraser-McGurk being dropped due to poor form. He had recently opened for Australia during their one-day series against Pakistan but failed to make an impact. His performances fell short of expectations, leading the selectors to choose more experienced and consistent players for the tournament.
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Chief selector George Bailey expressed confidence in the selected team, emphasizing its balance and depth. Bailey noted the squad’s strong core, with players who have excelled in recent major tournaments. “This is a balanced and experienced squad, with core players involved in the previous one-day World Cup, the West Indies series, last year’s successful UK tour, and the recent home series against Pakistan,” Bailey said.
He also emphasized the squad’s versatility, which allows management to adapt based on opposition and conditions in Pakistan and the UAE. “It offers flexibility for touring management depending on opposition and conditions,” he added.
The squad also includes experienced players like Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Glenn Maxwell, and Adam Zampa. All-rounders Mitchell Marsh and Marcus Stoinis add depth, while young talents Nathan Ellis and Matt Short bring fresh energy.
Australia Squad: Pat Cummins (captain), 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.
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