The reigning world champions have been hit by a series of injuries ahead of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. Following injuries to Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Marsh, and the sudden retirement of Marcus Stoinis after being picked for the main squad, the Australians have suffered another blow: their premier fast bowler and big-match performer, Mitchell Starc, has withdrawn from the tournament. Starc’s wife, Alyssa Healy, captain of the Australian women’s team, has stated the reason for his withdrawal.
Healy Opens up on Starc’s Withdrawal
Alyssa Healy, who herself opted out of the WPL 2025 citing work pressure, said that Starc is fine and well. His body currently needs rest, as he was part of a grueling five-match test series against India back in January. Given Starc’s heavy workload throughout that series, his body requires rest, and this is the primary reason for his withdrawal.
Speaking to Brad Haddin on a recent Willow Cricket podcast, when asked about Starc’s withdrawal she said “Don’t look at me, I haven’t spoken to him about it yet and said she isn’t clear on why he withdrew. She later clarified to Brad Haddin that Starc’s withdrawal from Champions Trophy was completely seeking rest and also said that she is not pregnant.”
Bailey Back’s Starc’s Champions Trophy Exit
The chief selector of the Australian Cricket Team, George Bailey, backed Mitchell Starc’s decision to opt out of the 2025 Champions Trophy. Bailey said, “We understand and respect Mitch’s decision. Mitch is deeply respected for his commitment to international cricket and the priority he places on performing for Australia.”
“His well documented ability to play through pain and adversity, as well as forgoing opportunities in other parts of his career to put his country first should be applauded.“His loss is of course a blow for the Champions Trophy campaign but does provide an opportunity to someone else to make a mark on the tournament,” Bailey further added.
Australia will begin their campaign against England on February 22nd. Steve Smith takes over the reins as captain for this tournament, and the Australians have a relatively young and inexperienced bowling lineup led by Sean Abbott. A lot rests on the shoulders of the spin duo of Adam Zampa and Tanveer Sangha, alongside part-timers Glenn Maxwell and Matthew Short.
Australia 2025 Champions Trophy Squad: Steve Smith (c), 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, Adam Zampa.
Travelling reserve: Cooper Connolly.
