Australia faces another setback as Mitchell Starc withdraws from Champions Trophy

Australia’s troubles continue ahead of Champions Trophy 2025 as star fast bowler Mitchell Starc has withdrawn from the tournament.

Starc pulled out of the Champions Trophy, set to begin on February 19 in Pakistan, due to personal reasons. Cricket Australia has expressed full support for his decision, while the pacer has requested privacy and will not be making any further comments on the matter.

Australia has already suffered major setbacks, with captain Pat Cummins, fast bowler Josh Hazlewood, and all-rounder Mitchell Marsh ruled out with fitness issues. Additionally, all-rounder Marcus Stoinis recently announced that he is retiring from One Day International (ODI) cricket.

Meanwhile, Cricket Australia has finalized its squad for the Champions Trophy, with experienced batter Steve Smith leading the side.

Australia’s Squad for the ICC Champions Trophy includes:

Captain: Steve Smith

Players: Sean Abbott, Alex Carey, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Aaron Hardie, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Tanveer Sangha, Matthew Short, and Adam Zampa.

Chairman of Selectors George Bailey acknowledged that the team had to make several changes with the injuries and retirements plaguing players. He emphasized that the squad was chosen based on performances over the past 12 months.

The Champions Trophy is set to commence in Pakistan on February 19.