Australia, the reigning Cricket World Cup champions, are one of the strongest contenders at the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Despite multiple injuries in their squad, former Aussie all-rounder Shane Watson believes they remain a major threat. He has identified Glenn Maxwell as the key player for Australia in the tournament.
- Shane Watson believes Glenn Maxwell will be Australia’s standout player.
- Maxwell had a brilliant Big Bash League 2024/25, scoring 325 runs at a strike rate of 186.78.
- Maxwell played a key role in Australia’s Cricket World Cup 2023 victory, scoring 400 runs.
- Australia is missing key players like Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Marsh due to injuries.
- Despite setbacks, Watson believes Steve Smith’s side is still a strong contender.
Shane Watson Backs Glenn Maxwell
Watson, one of the four Event Ambassadors for the tournament, expressed his confidence in Maxwell’s ability to dominate. He emphasized that Maxwell’s recent form, particularly in the Big Bash League, makes him the most crucial player for Australia.
“The stand-out player for me is Glenn Maxwell,” Watson wrote in his recent ICC column. He highlighted that Maxwell is entering a phase where he can deliver his best performances over the next few years.
Maxwell’s Recent Form
Maxwell was among the top scorers in the Big Bash League 2024/25, finishing as the fourth-highest run-getter with 325 runs in nine innings. His aggressive batting and exceptional strike rate of 186.78 showcased his match-winning ability.
His contribution in Australia’s 2023 World Cup victory was equally remarkable. He amassed 400 runs in nine matches, including a historic double century against Afghanistan. Despite inconsistency at times, Watson believes everything is aligning for Maxwell to shine at the Champions Trophy 2025.
Australia’s Injury Concerns
Australia is facing a major challenge with several key players missing from their squad. Captain Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Marsh have all been ruled out due to injuries. Additionally, all-rounder Marcus Stoinis announced his unexpected retirement just before the tournament.
Despite these setbacks, Watson remains confident that Australia will still be the team to beat. “I think Australia will be very hard to beat, even if their bowling squad is not quite as experienced,” he stated.
Australia’s Strengths Despite Setbacks
Watson’s faith in the Australian team is based on their deep talent pool. While their bowling attack lacks experience, they still have a strong lineup under the leadership of Steve Smith. Maxwell’s aggressive approach, combined with the presence of seasoned players, could make Australia a dominant force in the tournament.
Maxwell’s Role in Australia’s Success
Watson acknowledged that Maxwell’s batting position sometimes affects his consistency. However, he believes the swashbuckling all-rounder is in the perfect mental and physical state to perform exceptionally well. Maxwell’s ability to take on any bowling attack makes him an invaluable asset for Australia.
Australia enters the Champions Trophy 2025 with a mix of challenges and opportunities. While injuries have weakened their squad, Glenn Maxwell is expected to be the game-changer. Backed by his recent form and Watson’s endorsement, all eyes will be on Maxwell to deliver a match-winning performance.
Glenn Maxwell’s Recent Performance
| Tournament | Matches | Runs | Strike Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Big Bash League 2024/25 | 9 | 325 | 186.78 |
| Cricket World Cup 2023 | 9 | 400 | – |
Why Australia Remains a Strong Contender
- Glenn Maxwell’s explosive form
- Deep batting lineup
- Strong leadership under Steve Smith
- Winning mentality from past successes
The Champions Trophy 2025 will be an exciting challenge for Australia. Will Glenn Maxwell rise to the occasion? Fans eagerly await the action-packed tournament!
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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
