Cricket Australia finally confirm what’s buzzing for them in preparation for the Champions Trophy to be held next year in 2025. The mighty Aussies recently faced a huge setback as they could not make it to the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup after losses against Afghanistan and India.
In the longer limited-overs format, the mighty Aussies have been the most dominating side to date, be it in any part of the world. They have already shown their composure and calibre in the sub-continent in the Cricket World Cup 2023 in India, where they defeated the hosts to be crowned as the World Champions for the 6th time in World Cup history.
Recently, after their World Cup exit, veteran batter David Warner announced his retirement from all forms of international cricket, through his cryptic post on Instagram just days later, the Aussie veteran indicated that he would be more than available for his team if they need him in the upcoming Champions trophy.
However, George Bailey, the Australian selector clearly stated that Warner is now considered retired by them and he won’t be seen any further in the yellow-coloured shirt. He also praised the left-hander’s immense contribution to world cricket and has accredited his greatness.
“Our understanding is that David is retired, and [he] should be commended on what has been an incredible career across all three formats,” Bailey said. “Certainly, our plannig is that he won’t be there in Pakistan.
The selector stressed focusing on the future of Australian cricket, especially in the shorter format, as they look to go all hands down on Fraser-McGurk and Cooper Connolly. However, several senior players still retain their chances.
Matthew Wade might not be seen featuring any further in the shortest format for the Aussies, however, Glen Maxwell and Mitchell Starc, two very senior and finest players in limited-overs cricket, might not be seen immediately with the Kangaroos in their tours for Scotland and England. However, he has not ruled out the likes of these players for contention in the T20 World Cup 2026 to be held in India.
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However, he also stated that both these experienced campaigners will be seen in the Champions Trophy, especially Starc will be one of the ace cards for the side, as he would once again be expected to deliver with the ball, after his brilliant World Cup campaign.
With the Champions League approaching like many great teams, Cricket Australia are also looking to rebuild their squad, as now they look to focus on another bright stint of Australian cricket in the coming years, which might be led by the likes of Pat Cummins, Cam Green and dynamic batter Travis Head.