Poonam Nath

Major setback for Australia! Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Hazlewood ruled out From Champions Trophy; names new captain

Digital Desk: Australia's chances of winning the Champions Trophy were given a big setback on Wednesday, with Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood ruled out.

Cummins (ankle) and Hazlewood (side and calf) were always unlikely to play, but Starc has also pulled out for personal reasons. Steve Smith, who replaced Cummins in the team's two-Test hammering of Sri Lanka earlier this month, will skipper them.

The 15-man squad is also without all-rounder Marcus Stoinis, who retired from the 50-over tournament last week, and Mitchell Marsh, who was already ruled out with a back injury.

"The squad has changed significantly over the last month as a result of some unfortunate injuries and the retirement of Marcus Stoinis," stated chief selector George Bailey.

Starc will also miss the two-match ODI series against Sri Lanka, which begins in Colombo later Wednesday.

The absence of Australia's long-standing speed attack has created opportunities for Spencer Johnson, Nathan Ellis, and Ben Dwarshuis.

Aaron Hardie replaces Adam Zampa as the seaming all-rounder, and developing leg-spinner Tanveer Sangha has been added to the squad to support him.

The eight-nation Champions Trophy will be played in Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates from February 19 to March 9.