Sat Feb 22 14:38:54 UTC 2025: ## Australia Wins Toss, Elects to Bowl First Against England in Champions Trophy Clash
**LAHORE, PAKISTAN** – Australia won the toss and elected to bowl first against England in their Group B encounter of the 2025 Champions Trophy at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on February 22nd, 2025. The match marks a crucial clash between two teams struggling with recent form. England suffered a 3-0 whitewash against India in a recent ODI series, while Australia was similarly defeated in a clean sweep by Sri Lanka.
Despite their poor form, Australia will be buoyed by the return of Alex Carey to the squad. However, they face the significant disadvantage of five key players missing the tournament – captain Pat Cummins, and fast bowlers Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, as well as Mitchell Marsh and Marcus Stoinis. Steve Smith is leading the team in Cummins’ absence.
The Gaddafi Stadium is known for its high-scoring matches due to a batsman-friendly pitch, potentially making this a thrilling encounter. Both teams are eager for a win to boost their chances in the tournament.
**Playing XIs:**
**Australia:** Matthew Short, Travis Head, Steven Smith (capt.), Marnus Labuschagne, Josh Inglis (wk), Alex Carey, Glenn Maxwell, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa, Spencer Johnson.
**England:** Phillip Salt, Ben Duckett, Jamie Smith (capt.), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jos Buttler (wk), Liam Livingstone, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, Mark Wood.
The match is being broadcast live on Star Sports 2, Sports 18-1 and JioHotstar.
First Piper 