Australia's Starc opts out of Champions Trophy
Australia seamer Mitchell Starc has opted out of the Champions Trophy.It continues a disruptive build-up for the two-time winners, who had already lost captain Pat Cummins, seamer Josh Hazlewood and all-rounder Mitchell Marsh to injury, plus the sudden ODI retirement of all-rounder Marcus Stoinis. Starc, 35, will not be sharing a reason for his decision and has asked for privacy. The left-armer, who has taken 244 wickets in 127 one-day internationals, was the only Australia seamer to play in all seven Tests against India at home and Sri Lanka away between November and February. It leaves Spencer Johnson, Nathan Ellis, Sean Abbott and Ben Dwarshuis, who have played in 37 ODIs between them, as Australia's frontline pace options."We understand and respect Mitch's decision," chair selector George Bailey said."Mitch is deeply respected for his commitment to international cricket and the priority he places on performing for Australia."His well-documented ability to play through pain and adversity, as well as forgoing opportunities in other parts of his career to put his country first should be applauded."His loss is of course a blow for the Champions Trophy campaign but does provide an opportunity for someone else to make a mark on the tournament."Steve Smith has been appointed captain ahead of Travis Head in Cummins' absence.The Champions Trophy starts on 19 February and Australia's first game is against England on 22 February.
Australia's Champions Trophy squad
Steve Smith (captain), Sean Abbott, Alex Carey, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Aaron Hardie, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Tanveer Sangha, Matthew Short, Adam Zampa. Travelling reserve: Cooper Connolly.
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