Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc has opened up on the reasons behind his decision to skip the ongoing ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025.
The star pacer was named in Australia’s preliminary squad for the eight-team tournament, however, he later withdrew his name at the eleventh hour, citing personal reasons.
“We understand and respect Mitch’s [Mitchell Starc] decision,” chair of selectors George Bailey said. “Mitch is deeply respected for his commitment to international cricket and the priority he places on performing for Australia.”
Recently, Starc, during an appearance on the Willow Talk podcast in Australia, revealed that the main reason behind his absence was to take a rest and keep his body fit for the ICC World Test Championship Final against South Africa in June.
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“There are a few different reasons, some personal views,” Starc said. “I had a bit of ankle pain through the Test series, so I just need to get that one right.”
“Obviously, we have the Test final coming up and a West Indies tour after that. There is some IPL cricket as well.
“But the main one at the top of my mind is the Test final. Get my body right, play some cricket in the next couple of months and then be ready to go for the Test final.”
For the unversed, Australia entered the Champions Trophy without their pace trio, as captain Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood were ruled out of the tournament due to injuries.
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However, despite their absence, Australia kicked off their campaign with a thrilling victory against arch-rivals England.
Meanwhile, their match against South Africa was abandoned due to rain in Rawalpindi.
They will next face Afghanistan in their last group stage match on February 28 at Lahore’s Gadaffi Stadium.
Australia squad for Champions Trophy 2025
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.
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