Australia is preparing for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 with a fresh squad for the ODI series against Sri Lanka. These matches will help selectors finalize the squad for the major tournament in Pakistan. With key players missing due to injuries and retirements, the team is undergoing significant changes.
Australia’s New Look ODI Squad for Sri Lanka
The ODI squad for the Sri Lanka series includes several players hoping to secure a spot in the Champions Trophy 2025. The final 15-man squad for the tournament will be announced soon.
- Pat Cummins (ankle), Josh Hazlewood (hip), Mitch Marsh (back), and Marcus Stoinis (retired) are unavailable.
- Steve Smith leads the team in the absence of Cummins.
- Travis Head is named vice-captain.
Key Players in Australia’s ODI Squad
- Fast bowlers: Spencer Johnson, Nathan Ellis, Ben Dwarshuis
- Batsmen: Matt Short, Jake Fraser-McGurk
- All-rounders: Glenn Maxwell, Aaron Hardie
- Spinner: Adam Zampa
Several players from the Test squad, including Sean Abbott, Cooper Connolly, and Tanveer Sangha, are also part of the ODI setup.
ODI Series Against Sri Lanka – A Crucial Test
The two-match ODI series against Sri Lanka in Colombo is a key opportunity for players to prove their worth.
- First ODI: February 12, Colombo
- Second ODI: February 14, Colombo
- Venue: Premadasa Stadium
The stadium, currently undergoing a lighting upgrade, will host matches in daytime conditions. The Sri Lanka squad, led by Charith Asalanka, includes talented names like Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, and Wanindu Hasaranga.
Steve Smith’s Leadership & Team Strategy
With Smith as captain, Australia will test various combinations before finalizing their squad for Champions Trophy 2025.
- Smith’s recent form: He was the Player of the Series in Tests against Sri Lanka.
- Smith’s elbow injury: He is managing a minor issue but expects no impact on his batting.
- Wicketkeeper choice: Alex Carey took the gloves during training, indicating he may start in ODIs.
Australia’s Adaptation to White-Ball Cricket
Many Australian players are transitioning from Test cricket to ODIs.
- Test players adjusting to ODIs: Smith, Labuschagne, Inglis, and Carey are returning to the 50-over format.
- Big Bash experience: Several squad members recently played in the BBL, keeping them in white-ball form.
- Training and fitness: Players are managing workloads, with some opting for optional practice sessions.
Champions Trophy 2025 – Australia’s Road Ahead
With the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 set to begin soon, Australia’s ODI squad needs to be at its best.
- Team selection: The final squad will be announced after the Sri Lanka series.
- Tournament location: Pakistan will host the event.
- Preparation matches: The Sri Lanka ODIs serve as crucial warm-ups.
Australia’s Expected Squad for Champions Trophy 2025
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Steve Smith (c) | Batsman |
| Travis Head (vc) | Batsman |
| Glenn Maxwell | All-rounder |
| Alex Carey | Wicketkeeper |
| Marnus Labuschagne | Batsman |
| Adam Zampa | Spinner |
| Mitchell Starc | Fast bowler |
| Sean Abbott | All-rounder |
| Nathan Ellis | Fast bowler |
| Tanveer Sangha | Spinner |
| Jake Fraser-McGurk | Batsman |
| Matt Short | Batsman |
| Spencer Johnson | Fast bowler |
| Ben Dwarshuis | Fast bowler |
| Aaron Hardie | All-rounder |
Why These ODIs Matter for Australia’s Champions Trophy Hopes
The ODI series against Sri Lanka is a stepping stone for Australia’s preparation.
- Team selection clarity: Strong performances can secure players’ spots in the Champions Trophy squad.
- Assessing new talents: Young players like Jake Fraser-McGurk and Matt Short get a chance to shine.
- Match conditions similar to Pakistan: Playing in Sri Lanka helps Australia adapt to subcontinental pitches.
With the Champions Trophy 2025 fast approaching, Australia is fine-tuning its squad. The ODI series against Sri Lanka will test new combinations and help finalize the best possible team. Steve Smith’s leadership, emerging players, and strong squad depth give Australia a solid chance to compete for the title.
Check out the Champions Trophy Schedule, Champions Trophy Live Score, Champions Trophy Squads , Champions Trophy Stats Champions Trophy Tour, Champions Trophy Venues & Champions Trophy Latest News here!
ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Matches
Pakistan vs New Zealand - 1st Match, Group A | Bangladesh vs India - 2nd Match, Group A | Afghanistan vs South Africa - 3rd Match, Group B | Australia vs England - 4th Match, Group B | Pakistan vs India - 5th Match, Group A | Bangladesh vs New Zealand - 6th Match, Group A | Australia vs South Africa - 7th Match, Group B | Afghanistan vs England - 8th Match, Group B | Pakistan vs Bangladesh - 9th Match, Group A | Afghanistan vs Australia - 10th Match, Group B | England vs South Africa - 11th Match, Group B | New Zealand vs India - 12th Match, Group A | TBA vs TBA, 1st Semi-Final | TBA vs TBA, 2nd Semi-Final | TBA vs TBA, Final |
ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Teams
PAKISTAN | NEW ZEALAND | BANGLADESH | INDIA | AFGHANISTAN | SOUTH AFRICA | AUSTRALIA | ENGLAND
