Mitchell Starc explains Champions Trophy 2025 absence: ankle injury and WTC focus
Mitchell Starc says an ankle issue and a clear focus on the World Test Championship Final drove his call to skip the Champions Trophy 2025. Initially named in Australia’s preliminary squad, he withdrew with Cricket Australia’s backing. With Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood also out, Australia went in with a raw pace group. Starc plans a careful return via the IPL and the West Indies tour if his recovery stays on track.