Mitchell Starc has opted out of the forthcoming ICC Champions Trophy for personal reasons, prompting Australia to make adjustments to their 15-player roster under the captaincy of Steven Smith.
The Australian team is already facing considerable challenges due to injuries sustained by Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Marsh. Starc's exit further weakens their pace attack ahead of the tournament, which is set to commence on February 19 in Pakistan and the UAE.
The left-arm fast bowler, who has requested privacy regarding his choice, exhibited signs of discomfort during the latter part of the second Test against Sri Lanka in Galle.
"We acknowledge and respect Mitch's decision," stated George Bailey, chair of selectors, as reported by ESPNcricinfo.
"Mitch is highly regarded for his dedication to international cricket and the emphasis he places on representing Australia," he continued.
"His well-known capacity to endure pain and challenges, along with his willingness to sacrifice opportunities in other areas of his career for the sake of his country, deserves recognition. While his absence is undoubtedly a setback for the Champions Trophy, it also opens the door for another player to shine in the tournament," he remarked.
Smith, who recently led Australia to a 2-0 Test series win in Sri Lanka, will take over as captain in the absence of Cummins and Marsh.
To strengthen the squad, Australia has included Sean Abbott, Ben Dwarshuis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Spencer Johnson, and Tanveer Sangha. Additionally, Cooper Connolly will join the team as a reserve player.
Fraser-McGurk, who holds a modest ODI average of 17.40 from five matches, showcased his potential with an impressive 95 runs off 46 balls in the Big Bash League (BBL) while playing for the Melbourne Renegades. His inclusion adds valuable depth to the top order in light of Marsh's absence. Johnson, a left-arm fast bowler, serves as a direct replacement for Starc, although he has yet to claim a wicket in his two ODI outings. Additionally, leg-spinner Sangha, who was already part of the Test squad in Sri Lanka as a development player, will team up with Adam Zampa as the second primary spinner for the squad.
"The squad has undergone significant changes over the past month due to some unfortunate injuries and the retirement of Marcus Stoinis," Bailey stated, as reported by ESPNcricinfo.
"The positive aspect is that we have been able to bring in players who have gained international experience and success in the last year," he continued.
"A solid core of our most seasoned players will establish a strong foundation as we aim to secure victory in this edition of the Champions Trophy. We have various options to tailor the playing XI throughout the tournament based on the opposition and the conditions we encounter," he remarked.
Australia will refine their preparations with two ODIs against Sri Lanka in Colombo on February 12 and 14, before commencing their Champions Trophy journey against England on February 22. They will subsequently face South Africa on February 25 and Afghanistan on February 28.
Australia 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.
