AUS vs ENG: Australia’s playing XI for the Champions Trophy 2025 match against England

The much-awaited ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has commenced, and Australia are set to begin their campaign against arch-rivals England on February 22 (Saturday). However, the multiple-time champions have suffered a major blow ahead of the tournament, with several of their key players ruled out due to injuries or withdrawals.

Key absences a major concern for Australia

Australia’s hopes of securing their third Champions Trophy title have taken a hit with the absence of five first-choice players – Pat Cummins, Marcus Stoinis, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, and Mitchell Marsh. The depletion of their bowling unit could be a major concern, as the Kangaroos will have to rely on relatively inexperienced pacers like Spencer Johnson, Aaron Hardie, Nathan Ellis, and Ben Dwarshuis to deliver on the big stage.

Batting still strong under Steve Smith’s leadership

Despite the setbacks in their bowling department, Australia’s batting remains a strong suit, with experienced players like Travis Head, Steve Smith, and Marnus Labuschagne leading the charge. Under Smith’s captaincy, the team will look to make up for their weakened bowling attack by posting competitive totals and relying on their all-rounders for balance.

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Australia’s predicted playing XI for the Champions Trophy 2025 game England

1. Travis Head (Opener)

Strength: Aggressive stroke-maker with the ability to take on pacers and spinners alike. His experience in high-pressure matches makes him a valuable asset.
Expectation: Australia will rely on Head to provide a quick and solid start, setting the tone for the innings.

2. Matthew Short (Opener)

Strength: A dynamic batter who can anchor the innings or accelerate when needed. Also offers handy off-spin.
Expectation: Needs to complement Head at the top and capitalize on the powerplay overs. His off-spin could also be useful in the middle overs.

3. Marnus Labuschagne (Middle-order batter)

Strength: Reliable technique and temperament in ODI cricket. Can steady the innings if early wickets fall.
Expectation: Expected to be the stabilizer in the middle order, rotating strike and forming partnerships with aggressive batters.

4. Steve Smith (c) (Middle-order batter & Captain)

Strength: One of the best batters in world cricket, known for adaptability and game awareness. His leadership experience is crucial.
Expectation: Needs to anchor the innings and guide the middle order, especially in case of a top-order collapse.

5. Aaron Hardie (All-rounder)

Strength: Hard-hitting lower-order batter who can accelerate in the death overs. Can also chip in with medium pace.
Expectation: Expected to provide finishing power and contribute with the ball as a fifth or sixth bowling option.

6. Glenn Maxwell (All-rounder)

Strength: An explosive finisher who can change games single-handedly. Also a quality off-spinner.
Expectation: Australia will look to Maxwell for quick runs in the latter stages and to break partnerships with his off-spin.

7. Alex Carey (wk) (Wicketkeeper-batter)

Strength: Dependable behind the stumps and a composed middle-order batter. Capable of playing both defensive and attacking innings.
Expectation: Needs to anchor the lower middle order and provide stability if needed. His keeping skills will be key, especially against spin.

8. Nathan Ellis (Fast bowler)

Strength: A skilled death bowler with variations like slower balls and yorkers.
Expectation: Will be crucial in restricting runs in the slog overs and picking up key wickets in the death.

9. Spencer Johnson (Fast bowler)

Strength: Left-arm pacer who can generate extra bounce and movement early in the innings.
Expectation: Expected to provide early breakthroughs and maintain pressure with his pace and accuracy.

10. Adam Zampa (Leg-spinner)

Strength: Australia’s lead spinner with an excellent record in ODIs. Can control the middle overs and take crucial wickets.
Expectation: Needs to break partnerships and restrict runs in the middle phase of the innings.

11. Tanveer Sangha (Leg-spinner)

Strength: A rising star with sharp leg-spin variations, including a deceptive googly.
Expectation: Likely to complement Zampa in spin-friendly conditions and provide attacking options in the middle overs.