Australia Faces Champions Trophy Challenge with Revamped Squad

Australia’s selectors have refreshed the Test squad while maintaining a strong record, but concerns now shift to the white-ball team ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup. With the Champions Trophy returning after eight years, Australia faces England in their opening match at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, on Saturday. However, this squad is vastly different from the one that triumphed in the 2023 World Cup final.

Five key players—Pat Cummins, Mitch Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Mitch Marsh, and Marcus Stoinis—are unavailable due to injuries, personal reasons, and retirement. While their replacements have international experience, Australia has suffered four consecutive ODI defeats, including heavy losses to Sri Lanka. With six losses in their last 10 matches, the team will need something special to succeed in Pakistan.