Fri Feb 21 18:38:42 UTC 2025: ## Smith to Lead Injury-Hit Australia Against England in Champions Trophy Opener

**Lahore, Pakistan –** Australia and England will clash in the opening Group B match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on Saturday at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. The match marks a significant challenge for both teams, with Australia facing a depleted squad and England looking to rebound from a recent series loss.

Australia will be captained by Steve Smith, stepping in for the injured Pat Cummins. Several key players, including Mitchell Starc, Mitchell Marsh, Marcus Stoinis, and Josh Hazlewood, are also absent, leaving Australia with a relatively inexperienced bowling attack.

England, meanwhile, enters the tournament following a 3-0 series defeat to India and will be eager to regain momentum. Both teams have announced their squads.

The match promises a fascinating contest between a weakened Australian side and an England team seeking to prove their mettle.

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