Australia on Monday announced its 15-member preliminary squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, with key pacers Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood included despite being rested for the upcoming tour of Sri Lanka.
Cummins, currently on paternity leave, is set to undergo scans for an ankle issue that lingered throughout Australia’s 3-1 victory in the Border-Gavaskar series.
Meanwhile, Hazlewood continues to recover from a calf injury sustained during the home Test series against India.
Chief selector and former Australian captain George Bailey expressed confidence in the squad’s experience and balance.
"This is a balanced and experienced squad with the core having been involved in the previous one-day World Cup, the West Indies series, last year's successful tour of the UK and the more recent Pakistan home series," said chief of selectors, George Bailey.
"It offers a variety of options for touring management depending on opposition and the conditions that may present in Pakistan," he added.
The pace attack features Nathan Ellis alongside veteran Mitchell Starc, while Adam Zampa remains the sole frontline spinner.
All-rounders Aaron Hardie and Matthew Short have earned their places in the squad, adding depth and versatility.
Wicketkeeping duties will primarily be handled by Alex Carey, who retains his spot after a strong return to the ODI side last September against England.
Carey also provides backup for Josh Inglis, who is recovering from a calf strain. Australia’s squad can be modified up until the tournament’s commencement, per ICC rules.
Australia is placed in Group B and will kick off their Champions Trophy campaign in Pakistan next month.
They are set to face England on February 22, South Africa on February 25, and Afghanistan on February 28.
Australia's Squad: Pat Cummins (C), Alex Carey, Nathan Ellis, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Short, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampafnasd
