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| AFP |
With the Champions Trophy just a month away, concerns are mounting over Australian captain Pat Cummins' fitness. Chief selector George Bailey has refused to confirm his availability for the tournament, citing swelling in Cummins' ankle that has plagued him throughout the season. Despite the injury, Cummins led his team to a 3-1 victory against India in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
George Bailey’s Statement
Bailey revealed that Cummins is on paternity leave and will undergo an ankle scan. Speaking to "Nine.com.au," he said, “It’s too early to say anything. We’ll know more after the scan reports come in.” For the upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka, Steve Smith has been named captain in Cummins' absence.
On Josh Hazlewood, who was also excluded from the Sri Lanka series, Bailey expressed optimism about his recovery. “He’s working hard and recovering well. While he wasn’t fit for Sri Lanka, we expect him to be ready for the Champions Trophy.”
Australia’s Champions Trophy Record
Australia, a two-time Champions Trophy winner, clinched the title in 2006 by defeating the West Indies and in 2009 by beating New Zealand. This year marks the ninth edition of the tournament. Australia is placed in Group B alongside South Africa, England, and Afghanistan.
Group Stage Fixtures:
- 22 February: Australia vs. England, Lahore
- 25 February: Australia vs. South Africa
- 28 February: Australia vs. Afghanistan, Lahore
Preparations for Sri Lanka Tour
Ahead of the Champions Trophy, Australia will play a two-Test series against Sri Lanka, starting on 29 January. The squad for this series is spin-heavy, considering Sri Lanka's turning tracks. Notably, 21-year-old Cooper Connolly has been included in the 16-member squad, which features seven specialist and part-time spinners.
Sri Lanka Tour Schedule:
- 29 January: 1st Test
- 6 February: 2nd Test
- 13 February: One-off ODI
Australia’s Test Squad for Sri Lanka:
Steve Smith (C), Sean Abbott, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cooper Connolly, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Constas, Matt Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Nathan McSweeney, Todd Murphy, Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster.
