Mitch Marsh To Miss ICC Champions Trophy Due To Ankle Injury

January 31, 2025: Australia has been dealt a significant blow ahead of the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy, as all-rounder Mitchell Marsh has been ruled out of the tournament due to ongoing back issues.

The Australian Cricket Board confirmed that Marsh has been struggling with lower back pain, which has not improved sufficiently despite rehabilitation efforts, and as a result, he will miss the tournament starting on February 16.

Cricket Australia released a statement explaining that Marsh’s lower back pain flared up in recent weeks, prompting the National Selection Panel (NSP) and the medical team to make the decision for Marsh to undergo a more extended rehabilitation period. The 32-year-old will now focus on recovery before returning to play.

Australia’s selectors now face the challenge of filling Marsh’s spot in the squad, with the deadline for final squad submissions set for February 12. In the meantime, Australia has included a few fresh faces in the squad for the Champions Trophy. Matt Short and Aaron Hardie, both versatile all-rounders, have earned their maiden ICC event call-ups, while pacer Nathan Ellis, who has impressed in recent Big Bash League performances, also joins the squad.

These changes come as a result of injuries and retirements, including the absence of David Warner, who retired from international cricket in late 2023, and Cameron Green, who is sidelined after back surgery. Sean Abbott is also unavailable for selection.

With Australia aiming to end their 15-year drought in the Champions Trophy, their campaign kicks off with a highly anticipated clash against England on February 22 in Lahore. The team will also face South Africa on February 25 and Afghanistan on February 28, both in the group stage.

Australia, having last won the Champions Trophy in 2009, will look to reclaim the prestigious title after previous wins in 2006 and 2009.

Australia’s preliminary squad: Pat Cummins (c), Alex Carey, Nathan Ellis, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Matt Short, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa (squad yet to be finalised).