February 15, 2025: Ahead of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, Australia’s stand-in skipper, Steve Smith, expressed confidence in the team’s new bowlers, Ben Dwarshius and Spencer Johnson, praising their unique skills and contributions to the squad. Despite a challenging 2-0 ODI series loss to Sri Lanka, including a 174-run defeat in the second match, Smith remained optimistic, particularly after the withdrawal of Mitchell Starc and injuries to key players like Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Marsh.
Australia’s bowling attack has been reshuffled as they head into the prestigious tournament in Pakistan and the UAE, beginning on February 19. Smith acknowledged the pressure on the new faces in the squad, particularly Dwarshius and Johnson, who are known for their ability to swing the ball. He emphasized the importance of communication to get the best out of them during crucial moments.
Smith highlighted the team’s depth, noting the various strengths of the bowlers. “They all do it differently, Ben Dwarshius and Spencer Johnson up-top trying to swing the ball back down the line. Sean Abbott has terrific lengths, Nathan Ellis has change-ups,” Smith said. “For me, captaining them, it’s about getting the right options at the right time.”
With spin expected to play a significant role in the tournament, Smith pointed out the presence of skilled spinners in the squad, including Adam Zampa and Tanveer Sangha, with additional part-time options in Glenn Maxwell and Matthew Short.
Australia’s Champions Trophy campaign kicks off on February 22 against England in Lahore.
Australia Champions Trophy squad:
- Steve Smith (C)
- Sean Abbott
- Alex Carey
- Ben Dwarshuis
- Nathan Ellis
- Jake Fraser-McGurk
- Aaron Hardie
- Travis Head
- Josh Inglis
- Spencer Johnson
- Marnus Labuschagne
- Glenn Maxwell
- Tanveer Sangha
- Matthew Short
- Adam Zampa