Australian captain Pat Cummins and fast bowler Josh Hazlewood will miss the upcoming Champions Trophy. Both players are also set to sit out Australia’s ODI series against Sri Lanka, which serves as a crucial preparatory tournament.
Australia Faces Further Setbacks with Stoinis’ ODI Retirement
The news follows all rounder Marcus Stoinis’ decision to retire from ODI cricket with immediate effect. Adding to the team’s woes, Mitchell Marsh has also been ruled out of the Champions Trophy due to a back injury, leaving Australia with significant gaps in their squad.
Injury Concerns Force Australia to Make Key Squad Changes
Pat Cummins has not recovered from a back injury sustained during the Border Gavaskar Trophy against India, while Hazlewood continues to struggle with a hip issue. As a result, Australia will need to make four squad changes before the final deadline on February 12. Meanwhile, either Steve Smith or Travis Head is expected to take over the captaincy for the tournament.