Mitchell Starc, the Australian pace bowler, cited ankle pain as the main reason for withdrawing from the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. He also mentioned personal views playing a role in his decision. Starc, who recently played in all seven of Australia’s Test matches, prioritized his fitness for the upcoming World Test Championship final in June at Lord’s over the 50-overs tournament in Pakistan. He mentioned the need to address his ankle issue and prepare for the Test final and upcoming tours. Starc’s absence has left Australia without their renowned pace-bowling trio, as Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood are also sidelined due to injuries. The tournament’s hybrid format, with matches in Dubai and Pakistan, may have influenced Starc’s decision. Australia is grouped with England, South Africa, and Afghanistan in Group B matches in Pakistan. The team is focused on winning the Test final and maintaining their success in the championship.
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