All-rounder of Team Australia ruled out of Champions Trophy
Australia has suffered a significant setback with the announcement that all-rounder Mitchell Marsh will miss the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy due to ongoing lower back issues. Cricket Australia confirmed that Marsh’s injury has not responded adequately to rehabilitation, leading the National Selection Panel to rule him out of the tournament, which begins on February 16.
Marsh has been dealing with lower back pain for some time, and his condition worsened in recent weeks, prompting the decision for a more extended rehabilitation period. He has only played one match in the Big Bash League since the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where he struggled with form and fitness. This absence not only affects Australia’s plans for the Champions Trophy but also raises doubts about his participation in the upcoming IPL season with Lucknow Super Giants.
Selectors have until February 12 to finalize their squad and will need to name a replacement for Marsh. The defending champions are set to open their campaign against England in Lahore, followed by matches against South Africa and Afghanistan. As Australia prepares for this crucial tournament, they will need to adjust their strategy without one of their key players.
Australia preliminary squad: Pat Cummins ©, Alex Carey, Nathan Ellis, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, MarnusLabuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Matt Short, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa (squad yet to be finalised)