Australia Preliminary Squad for CT25: Since finding themselves in Group B, alongside England (February 22), South Africa (February 25), and Afghanistan (February 28). Australia is due to play an ODI against Sri Lanka, following the two tests beginning at the end of this month. Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood are among the rest to have been booked for the 15-man preliminary squad for the Champions Trophy next month. This is after they both have been rested for the upcoming tour of Sri Lanka.
Currently on paternity leave, Cummins will have scans to evaluate the ankle problem he carried during Australia’s 3-1 victory in the Border-Gavaskar series. Hazlewood, however, has not fully recovered from the calf injury that forced him to miss the entire five-match Test series against India at home.
Australia Preliminary Squad for CT25
SQUAD: Adam Zampa, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Short, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Pat Cummins (C),
Alex Carey, Nathan Ellis, Aaron Hardie, and Josh Hazlewood
“This is a balanced and experienced squad with the core having been involved in the previous one-day World Cup, the West Indies series, last year’s successful tour of the UK, and the more recent Pakistan home series,” said chief of selectors George Bailey.
“It offers a variety of options for touring management depending on opposition and the conditions that may present in Pakistan.”
Adam Zampa is the lone frontline spinner selected, and Nathan Ellis and Mitchell Starc complete the pace assault.
Alex Carey has kept his previous spot since making a triumphant comeback to the 50-overs team in September against England after previously missing out on World Cup selection. All-rounders Aaron Hardie and Matthew Short have also been chosen in the squad. Because Josh Inglis is also recuperating from a calf ailment, Carey offers a backup wicketkeeping option.
According to the rules, the preliminary squad may be changed up until the event starts.
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