Pat Cummins' Injury Puts Australia’s Champions Trophy Plans in Jeopardy: Steve Smith vs Travis Head for Captaincy

Australia’s preparations for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy, 2025 have been dealt a significant blow, with captain Pat Cummins almost certainly sidelined due to a persistent ankle injury. Coach Andrew McDonald confirmed that Cummins’ recovery has not progressed as hoped, with the fast bowler unable to resume bowling. This has raised serious doubts about his participation in the tournament, forcing the team to consider a new captain for the prestigious event.

LEADERSHIP BATTLE: SMITH VS HEAD

With Cummins' availability in question, the captaincy of the Australian team is now up for grabs. McDonald revealed that former captain Steve Smith and in-form batter Travis Head are the leading candidates to take over the leadership role during Cummins' absence.

“Steve and Travis are the two players we have been considering for the captaincy,” McDonald said in an interview with SEN. “Steve has done an excellent job in recent matches, including the first Test, and he brings substantial leadership experience from his time in one-day international cricket. Both players have been part of discussions as we prepare the team for the Champions Trophy.”

While Steve Smith has a wealth of experience in leading the Australian side, Head’s strong form with the bat and emerging leadership potential has made him a serious contender. The team’s leadership decision will come down to further discussions and medical updates on Cummins' recovery.

INJURY WOES Continue for the World Champs

Australia’s injury list has grown, with fast bowler Josh Hazlewood also facing fitness concerns as he battles to overcome a hip issue. Hazlewood has already dealt with previous injuries, including side and calf strains, which have kept him sidelined for key matches in the past.

Further adding to the injury troubles, all-rounder Mitchell Marsh has been ruled out of the Champions Trophy due to a back problem. Marsh, who was expected to play a major role in the tournament, is also unlikely to feature in the remainder of the domestic season but could return for the IPL, where he plays for Lucknow Super Giants.

KEY REPLACEMENTS AND POTENTIAL CALL-UPS

As Australia looks to adjust to these setbacks, McDonald has hinted that Beau Webster, who recently impressed on his Test debut, could be in line to replace Marsh. The team will need to move quickly to finalize their squad, and with several players carrying injury concerns, opportunities are opening up for other players to step up.

All-rounders Aaron Hardie and Marcus Stoinis are already in the squad, but both are managing fitness issues. Hardie is still recovering from a quad injury and is just getting back to bowling, while Stoinis is dealing with hamstring tightness sustained during the SA20.

In addition, with Cummins’ absence, bowlers Sean Abbott and Spencer Johnson are now in contention for a spot in the squad. Abbott, who was initially omitted from the Champions Trophy team, is being reconsidered for a recall, while Johnson was already scheduled to fly to Sri Lanka as a backup for the ODI squad.

AUSTRALIA’S ROAD TO THE CHAMPIONS TROPHY

The upcoming Champions Trophy is a critical event for the defending champions, and these injury setbacks will test Australia’s depth and adaptability. With the leadership question still unresolved, the team will need to rally together as they seek to defend their title. The final squad and captaincy decision are expected to be confirmed in the coming days, as medical updates on the players’ injuries continue to emerge.