As the countdown to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 begins, teams are grappling with a significant challenge—injuries. Several key players have been ruled out, dealing major blows to their respective teams. Australia has suffered the biggest setback, losing multiple star performers, while South Africa and Pakistan have also faced crucial omissions. Meanwhile, a few names remain doubtful, with their participation hinging on last-minute fitness assessments.

Here’s a closer look at the players who will miss the Champions Trophy 2025 due to injury and those whose availability is still uncertain.

Australia Hit Hard with Major Absences

Australia’s squad has taken a severe hit, with three key players ruled out ahead of the tournament. Skipper Pat Cummins is sidelined due to an ankle injury, while fast bowler Josh Hazlewood has been forced out with a hip issue. All-rounder Mitchell Marsh, another vital member of the squad, is also unavailable due to a back injury.

Losing these experienced campaigners significantly weakens Australia’s balance, as they would have provided both leadership and versatility on the field. Their absence leaves the defending champions with a challenging task of restructuring their squad.

Confirmed Absentees from Australia:

• Pat Cummins – Ankle injury
• Josh Hazlewood – Hip injury
• Mitchell Marsh – Back injury

Pakistan’s Squad Adjustments

Pakistan has also made an enforced change to their lineup. Saim Ayub, a promising young talent, was initially expected to be included in the squad. However, after Shaheen Afridi announced the final team, it was confirmed that Ayub had been left out due to an ankle injury.

This setback denies Pakistan a dynamic batting option, as Ayub has been making headlines with his aggressive stroke play. With the tournament being held in conditions that could favor stroke-makers, his absence could impact the team’s top-order plans.

Confirmed Absentee from Pakistan:

• Saim Ayub – Ankle injury

South Africa’s Injury Woes

South Africa, too, has seen injuries impact their squad selection. Pace sensation Gerald Coetzee, who was expected to be a key asset, has been ruled out due to groin tightness and a hamstring injury. His raw pace and wicket-taking ability would have been a valuable weapon for the Proteas.

Additionally, Anrich Nortje, another key fast bowler, is also unavailable due to a back injury. South Africa relies heavily on its fast-bowling attack, and losing two key pacers ahead of a high-stakes tournament is a massive blow.

Confirmed Absentees from South Africa:

• Gerald Coetzee – Groin tightness and hamstring injury
• Anrich Nortje – Back injury

Players with Uncertain Availability

While some players have been officially ruled out, others remain on the doubtful list, with their participation hinging on their recovery progress.

India’s pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah is dealing with a back spasm, which has already forced him out of the ongoing series against England. His fitness remains under scrutiny, and his selection for the Champions Trophy will depend on medical evaluations closer to the tournament.

Meanwhile, Jamie Smith from England has reported calf discomfort, making his inclusion uncertain. England’s selectors are monitoring his condition before making a final call.

Players Who May Miss the Tournament:

• Jasprit Bumrah (India) – Back spasm
• Jamie Smith (England) – Calf discomfort

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