Australia has announced its 15-player preliminary squad for the ICC Men Champions Trophy 2025, which will take place in Pakistan. The squad is highlighted by the return of their captain, Pat Cummins, who will lead the team as they look to end their 15-year drought in the prestigious tournament. Let’s take a closer look at the players selected, the changes from the World Cup-winning squad, and Australia’s schedule for the tournament.
Pat Cummins Returns as Captain
Pat Cummins, who missed out on the Sri Lanka Test tour due to an ankle injury, will be leading Australia in the ICC Men Champions Trophy 2025. His leadership and experience will be crucial for the team’s success in Pakistan.
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Pat Cummins (c) | Captain |
| Alex Carey | Wicketkeeper |
| Nathan Ellis | Bowler |
| Aaron Hardie | All-rounder |
| Josh Hazlewood | Bowler |
Cummins’ return to the squad is a major boost for Australia, as they look to compete against the world’s best teams in the Champions Trophy. Despite his ankle injury, his leadership will be a key factor in guiding Australia through the tournament.
New Faces in the Squad
Australia preliminary squad features a few new faces, including Matt Short, Aaron Hardie, and Nathan Ellis. These players have been given a chance to prove themselves on the big stage after impressing in domestic cricket.
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Matt Short | All-rounder |
| Aaron Hardie | All-rounder |
| Nathan Ellis | Bowler |
- Matt Short has been a regular fixture in the One Day International (ODI) squad since the retirement of David Warner, while Aaron Hardie has represented Australia in 50-over cricket.
- Nathan Ellis has been rewarded for his consistent performances in the Big Bash League (BBL) with the Hobart Hurricanes, earning a spot in the squad.
These three players replace key players who are unavailable: David Warner (retired), Cameron Green (recovering from back surgery), and Sean Abbott (injury).
Squad Strength and Balance
Australia squad has a good mix of experienced players and newcomers. The team boasts a strong batting lineup with players like Steve Smith, Travis Head, and Marnus Labuschagne, while the bowling attack is led by the experienced trio of Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc.
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Steve Smith | Batsman |
| Travis Head | Batsman |
| Marnus Labuschagne | Batsman |
| Mitchell Marsh | All-rounder |
| Glenn Maxwell | All-rounder |
| Mitchell Starc | Bowler |
These players have been part of successful campaigns for Australia in recent years, including the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, the West Indies series, and last year’s tour of the UK. This experience will be invaluable in the high-pressure environment of the Champions Trophy.
Group Stage Matches for Australia
Australia’s group stage fixtures in the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 are as follows:
| Date | Match | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| 22 February | Australia vs England | Lahore |
| 25 February | Australia vs South Africa | Rawalpindi |
| 28 February | Australia vs Afghanistan | Lahore |
These matches will be crucial in determining Australia’s progression to the semi-finals. They face strong opposition in England, South Africa, and Afghanistan, and will need to perform at their best to advance in the tournament.
Pat Cummins’ Personal Situation
There were concerns about Pat Cummins’ availability for the tournament, as his wife is due to give birth to their second child around the time of Australia’s Test tour to Sri Lanka. However, Cummins has confirmed his availability for the Champions Trophy. This ensures that Australia will have their experienced leader in charge for the tournament.
Josh Hazlewood Return
Alongside Cummins, Josh Hazlewood will also be making his return to the squad. Hazlewood had been sidelined due to a calf injury but is now fit and ready to play. His experience and skill will be important for Australia’s bowling attack in Pakistan.
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Josh Hazlewood | Bowler |
Hazlewood’s return strengthens Australia’s pace attack and adds depth to their bowling options.
Australia Title Hopes
Australia is aiming to break their 15-year drought in the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy. Their last title came in 2009, and since then, they have been unable to claim the trophy despite being one of the strongest teams in world cricket. With a balanced squad and experienced leadership, Australia will be hoping to lift the trophy once again in 2025.
Summary
Australia squad for the ICC Men Champions Trophy 2025 looks strong and well-balanced, with experienced players and fresh talent ready to make an impact. Under the leadership of Pat Cummins, they will look to reclaim the Champions Trophy after 15 years. With key fixtures against England, South Africa, and Afghanistan in the group stage, Australia’s path to the semi-finals will be challenging but exciting. Fans will be eagerly watching as the team aims to add another ICC title to their impressive collection.
