Mitchell Starc withdraws, Smith to lead Australia in Champions Trophy

“His loss is, of course, a blow for the Champions Trophy campaign, but it provides an opportunity for someone else to make their mark on the tournament,” Bailey said.

Smith, who is leading the side on the tour of Sri Lanka, will captain the team in the absence of Cummins and Marsh during the tournament, which will be played across Pakistan and the UAE.

“The squad has changed significantly over the past month due to untimely injuries and the retirement of Marcus Stoinis,” Bailey remarked.

Pacers Spencer Johnson, Nathan Ellis, Sean Abbott, and Ben Dwarshuis have been named in Australia’s final 15-man squad for the Champions Trophy.

“The upside is that we have been able to call on players who have had international exposure and success over the past 12 months,” Bailey said.

“A strong core of some our most experienced players will provide a strong foundation in our attempt to win this edition of the Champions Trophy.

“We have a range of options to shape the playing XI within the tournament depending on the opposition and conditions we face.”

Fraser-McGurk, seam bowler Aaron Hardie, and leg-spinner Tanveer Sangha have also been added to the squad.