Mitchell Starc Steps Down, Australia Faces New Test
Australia's journey to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has taken a huge turn, with experienced fast bowler Mitchell Starc officially withdrawing from the squad. Starc, at 35, cited bothersome ankle pain and personal priorities for stepping back just as the team prepared for a tough tournament stretch. While fans hoped for his fiery spells in Pakistan, Starc chose instead to focus on his recovery and the looming World Test Championship Final against South Africa in June 2025.
Starc's decision isn't just about the physical pain from his recent Test clashes—especially after demanding series against Sri Lanka and India. He hinted at personal matters playing a part, and with a packed calendar ahead—including the IPL and a demanding West Indies tour—something had to give. Cricket Australia, while disappointed to lose a leading star, has backed his decision, highlighting Starc's long track record of putting national duty first, even ahead of lucrative franchise cricket.
Steve Smith Takes Charge of a Fresh-Looking Squad
The chain reaction from Starc's exit doesn't stop there. Injuries have already ripped through Australia's core. Usual skipper Pat Cummins remains out, still nursing his own issues. Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Marsh, both regulars in the pace and all-round departments, are also sitting out. In another blow, Marcus Stoinis—known for bailing Australia out with both bat and ball—recently hung up his boots for good.
Into this void steps Steve Smith, handed the captain's job once again. But his team now looks very different from the familiar line-ups Aussies have seen dominate white-ball cricket in years past. Among the 15 names, there's a noticeable influx of newcomers, especially among the quicks. Spencer Johnson, Nathan Ellis, Sean Abbott, and Ben Dwarshuis are all part of the revised pace attack, with selectors banking on their energy rather than experience. It's a big stage for these up-and-comers—taking on tough opposition, with England first up in Lahore on February 22, and the pressure to end a Champions Trophy drought stretching back to 2009.
Despite the upheaval, Australia hasn't written off its chances. The mood from the camp is one of cautious optimism. Selectors hope young blood can bring a spark and perhaps even pull off an upset or two. With Smith’s tactical nous and a dressing room now full of eager faces, Australia’s approach shifts from defending champions’ swagger to a gritty rebuild. It’s a rare moment when cricket’s gold-standard team finds itself chasing the pack—not leading it.
