Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood have been included in Australia’s squad for the Champions Trophy, even though neither will participate in the upcoming Sri Lanka tour.
Both all-rounders Aaron Hardie and Matthew Short, who have played just 11 ODIs each and are yet to cement their places, have also been named in the squad due to their versatility. Australia seems optimistic about their contributions in the marquee tournament.
The primary intrigue surrounding the squad was whether Cummins and Hazlewood would make it, given their uncertain availability. While both have been included, there are still some concerns. Selectors are holding onto hope, especially since changes can be made to the squad within the next month.
Neither Cummins nor Hazlewood is part of the Sri Lanka Test series squad. Cummins is currently on paternity leave, and Hazlewood is recovering from an injury.
Hazlewood is expected to be fit before the Champions Trophy, while Cummins is dealing with a separate issue. He recently underwent a scan on his troublesome ankle, with the results yet to arrive. Selectors remain optimistic since squad changes can be made without justification until February 12.
Meanwhile, Hardie, a pace-bowling all-rounder, is currently unable to bowl in the Big Bash League due to an injury. However, he is expected to recover in time for the tournament. His selection fills the gap left by Cameron Green, who was ruled out earlier due to an injury. With Hardie joining Mitchell Marsh and Marcus Stoinis, Australia’s all-rounder depth looks solid.
Off-spinning all-rounder Matthew Short has been in fine form, smashing a 109 off 54 balls in the Big Bash just days ago. Adam Zampa is the squad’s only specialist spinner, but Short and Glenn Maxwell can provide spin options if required. Notably, spin all-rounder Cooper Connolly and aggressive young batter Jake Fraser-McGurk missed out on selection.
Nathan Ellis has been included as a backup pacer alongside Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc. Ellis edged out Sean Abbott and Xavier Bartlett for the spot.
Australia’s Champions Trophy campaign begins on February 22 against arch-rivals England, followed by matches against South Africa on February 25 and Afghanistan on February 28. Before the tournament, they will play an ODI against Sri Lanka on February 13.
Australia’s Champions Trophy Squad:
Pat Cummins (captain), Alex Carey, Nathan Ellis, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Short, Steven Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa.
