Champions Trophy: Starc Exits for Personal Reasons, Smith to Captain Australia

Key Takeaways

Mitchell Starc withdraws from the ICC Champions Trophy.
Steven Smith appointed as captain.
Five new players join the squad.
Starc will also miss the ODI series in Sri Lanka.
Australia prepares for their opener against England on February 22.

Melbourne, Feb 12 (NationPress) Australia has encountered another setback ahead of the forthcoming ICC Champions Trophy as seasoned bowler Mitchell Starc has opted out of the tournament, citing personal reasons.

The Australians confirmed their 15-player roster for the eight-team competition on Wednesday, with veteran batsman Steven Smith leading the squad.

The absence of Starc necessitates the inclusion of five fresh players in the Australian lineup, with Sean Abbott, Ben Dwarshuis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Spencer Johnson, and Tanveer Sangha all joining the team for the tournament. Cooper Connolly will serve as a traveling reserve.

"Mitchell Starc has withdrawn from the tournament for personal reasons, with the backing of Cricket Australia and the Australian men's team. Starc will also miss the two-match ODI series in Sri Lanka leading up to the Champions Trophy," stated Cricket Australia.

Captain Pat Cummins (ankle), fellow fast bowler Josh Hazlewood (hip), and all-rounder Mitch Marsh (back) were already sidelined. The unexpected retirement of Marcus Stoinis earlier this month left selectors racing to find replacements.

Chair of men’s selectors George Bailey expressed, “The squad has undergone significant changes over the last month due to some unfortunate injuries and the retirement of Marcus Stoinis. The positive side is that we can call upon players who have gained international experience and success over the last year.

“A robust core of our most seasoned players will form a strong foundation in our quest to clinch this edition of the Champions Trophy. We have a variety of options to tailor the playing XI based on the opposition and conditions we encounter.”

“We comprehend and respect Mitch’s choice,” Bailey added. "Mitch is immensely respected for his dedication to international cricket and the emphasis he places on performing for Australia.

“His well-known capacity to compete through pain and challenges, alongside his willingness to forgo opportunities in other areas of his career to prioritize his country, deserves admiration.

“His absence is undoubtedly a setback for the Champions Trophy mission, but it opens the door for another player to shine in the tournament.”

Cricket Australia mentioned that Starc has requested the media to honor his privacy regarding this decision and will refrain from commenting.

Australia will continue their preparations for the tournament with two ODIs against Sri Lanka in Colombo this week, ahead of their tournament opener against England on February 22.

Australia will commence their Champions Trophy journey against England on February 22, followed by matches against 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.