The world champions’ journey to the upcoming ICC event will become more difficult. On Thursday, the Australian Cricket Board confirmed that Australian captain Pat Cummins was ruled out of the Champions Trophy. The skipper suffered an ankle injury at the end of the BGT.

Alongside the captain, Australia also requires 4 replacements in their Champions Trophy squad. Because Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Marsh or Marcus Stoinis are not ruled out the event begins on 19 February. Australia has a deadline of 12 February to make their replacements.

The Australian pacer Hazlewood suffered a hip injury during the 3rd match of the BGT. All-rounder Marsh has also confirmed his absence from the trophy due to injury. Their hard hitter Stoinis announced his retirement from the ODI format just before the event.

The Aussies selection committee has said that Travis Head or Steve Smith is likely to lead the team in the 2025 trophy. They share a group with Afghanistan, England and South Africa in the tournament.