Australia’s preliminary 15-player squad for the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 has been announced, with Pat Cummins returning as captain despite missing the upcoming Test tour to Sri Lanka due to an ankle injury. He will lead the team in Pakistan for the prestigious tournament.
Key Additions to the Squad
The squad sees Matt Short, Aaron Hardie, and Nathan Ellis making their maiden ICC event call-ups. These three replacements come after the retirements and injuries of David Warner, Cameron Green (who is recovering from back surgery), and Sean Abbott.
- Nathan Ellis earned his spot following a strong Big Bash League season with the Hobart Hurricanes.
- Matt Short and Aaron Hardie bring depth and versatility to the squad as all-rounders.
Selection Insights
George Bailey, Australia’s selection chair, highlighted the depth and variety the squad offers, noting that these additions will allow management to adapt to various conditions in Pakistan, depending on the opposition and weather.
Key Dates in the Tournament
Australia will kick off their Champions Trophy 2025 campaign against arch-rivals England on February 22 in Lahore, followed by matches with South Africa on February 25 in Rawalpindi and Afghanistan on February 28 in Lahore.
Absentees
Cummins and Josh Hazlewood (who is also recovering from a calf injury) will miss the Sri Lanka Test series but are expected to return for the Champions Trophy.
Australia’s Champions Trophy Goals
Australia, who last won the Champions Trophy in 2009, is aiming to end a 15-year drought for the title. They have previously claimed the tournament title in 2006 and 2009.
Australia Preliminary Squad for ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025:
- 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