No Stoinis, Cummins, Hazlewood for Australia at Champions Trophy

Australia head to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy severely depleted in experience after Marcus Stoinis, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood were ruled out of the tournament, starting later this month.

Stoinis’ omission from the squad follows the 35-year-old’s shock retirement from ODI cricket on Thursday, with the 2023 World Cup winner saying “it was the right time”.

“Playing ODI cricket for Australia has been an incredible journey, and I’m grateful for every moment I’ve had in the green and gold,” said the 71-ODI veteran.

“Representing my country at the highest level is something I’ll always cherish.

“This wasn’t an easy decision, but I believe it’s the right time for me to step away from ODIs and fully focus on the next chapter of my career.

“I’ve got a fantastic relationship with Ron [Andrew McDonald] and I’ve hugely appreciated his support.

“I’ll be cheering the boys on in Pakistan.”

Cummins missed the Sri Lanka tour to be at the birth of his child, but he is also nursing an ankle injury, after an arduous Test campaign over the Australian summer.

Hazlewood is understood to be suffering from a hip complaint.

Australian selector George Bailey said the pair were “managing some ongoing injuries and haven’t come up in time for the Champions Trophy”.

The two fast bowlers have taken 281 wickets between them in ODI cricket and represent a significant chunk of Australia’s pace experience.

However, their injuries open the door for the likes of Ben Dwarshuis, Spencer Johnson and Sean Abbott to get a look in at the Champions Trophy squad.

“While disappointing, it does present a great opportunity for other players to perform for Australia in a world event,” Bailey said.

Mitchell Marsh has also been ruled out of the event, with Jake Fraser-McGurk likely to replace him.

Despite the forced squad changes, Australia are still second-favourite to claim the Champions Trophy title in Pakistan.

The world No.2 side are paying $4.50 at Neds to claim their third Champions Trophy, behind India who have the shortest odds across cricket betting sites at $3.

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