Pat Cummins, the Australian cricket captain, is currently uncertain to participate in the Champions Trophy due to an ankle injury. Cummins, who also missed the Test tour to Sri Lanka due to the birth of his child, is dealing with ankle pain, leading Cricket Australia to announce that he will undergo scans to determine the severity of the issue. Chief selector George Bailey mentioned the need to assess the situation once the scan results are available, indicating that Cummins’ condition requires further evaluation.
Australia had been looking forward to the Champions Trophy since winning the 50-over World Cup in 2023. The loss of Cummins would represent a significant setback as the team aims to capture the tournament title, which they last won in 2009. In preparation, Mitch Marsh, serving as vice-captain in the one-day format and leading in Twenty20s, is set to join the Champions Trophy squad despite not being part of the Test team for Sri Lanka.
Additionally, fast bowler Josh Hazlewood will not travel to Sri Lanka, focusing on recovery from a calf injury with the intention of returning for the upcoming 50-over tournament. Instead, Australia has selected Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, and Sean Abbott for the Test squad. The team may consider playing a single fast bowler in Galle, depending on pitch conditions, which could impact the workload for whoever is chosen.
Bailey expressed optimism about Hazlewood’s recovery, noting positive progress, but emphasized the cautious approach required due to the potential demands on the fast bowlers. The situation with Cummins’ injury remains uncertain, potentially affecting Australia’s strategy as they prepare for their first Champions Trophy match in Pakistan on February 22.
