Australia’s cricket team has recently experienced a significant victory, defeating Team India at home and securing the Border-Gavaskar Trophy after a decade. Under the leadership of Pat Cummins, the team won the 5-match Test series with a score of 3-1, claiming the trophy and earning a spot in the World Test Championship final for the second consecutive time. The team is set to face South Africa in the WTC final, scheduled to take place at Lord’s between June 11 and June 15.
Before the WTC final, the Australian team will participate in the Champions Trophy. As the reigning ODI World Cup champions, they aim to capture the ICC trophy once again. However, the team has encountered a major setback ahead of the tournament.
Steve Smith Takes Over as Test Team Captain
Prior to the Champions Trophy, the Australian team will embark on a 2-match Test series tour of Sri Lanka. Although this series is considered a formality in the context of the WTC final, a surprising development has occurred. Pat Cummins, the regular team captain, will not be leading the team on this tour. Instead, Steve Smith has been appointed as the captain of Australia, marking his return to the role after a 7-year hiatus.
The reason behind Smith’s appointment is Cummins’ injury and his upcoming paternity leave. Cummins is struggling with an ankle problem, which requires treatment, and is also expecting his second child. As a result, his participation in the Champions Trophy is uncertain.
Uncertainty Surrounds Pat Cummins’ Availability for Champions Trophy
National Selection Committee Chairman George Bailey has expressed concerns regarding Cummins’ availability for the Champions Trophy. Bailey stated that Cummins will undergo a scan on his ankle and refused to confirm his participation in the tournament. The outcome of the scan will determine Cummins’ fitness and availability for the Champions Trophy, which is set to begin on February 19.