Wed Feb 05 11:00:27 UTC 2025: ## Cummins Doubtful for Champions Trophy, Australia Searches for New Captain
**LAHORE, PAKISTAN** – Australia’s chances of winning the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy have taken a significant hit with captain Pat Cummins deemed “hugely unlikely” to participate due to injury and personal reasons. Coach Andrew McDonald confirmed the news on Wednesday, revealing that Cummins is struggling with an ankle problem and will likely miss the tournament beginning February 19th in Pakistan and the UAE.
Cummins’ absence is compounded by the ongoing absence of fellow pace bowler Josh Hazlewood, who is also battling fitness issues. The team is already without vice-captain Mitchell Marsh, ruled out with a back injury.
Cummins’s participation was already uncertain due to the recent birth of his second child, which led him to miss the ongoing Test series in Sri Lanka. However, the ankle injury further complicates matters.
The news leaves Australia scrambling for a new captain. With Marsh out, the frontrunners appear to be Steve Smith, who has captained the Test side in Sri Lanka, and Travis Head. McDonald confirmed that discussions are underway with both players regarding the captaincy role.
The Australian team management expects to finalize the medical reports on both Cummins and Hazlewood in the coming days and will then make a final announcement regarding team selection and captaincy.
First Piper 