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In a significant setback for Australia, all-rounder Mitchell Marsh has been ruled out of the upcoming ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 due to ongoing issues with his lower back. Cricket Australia (CA) confirmed the news on Friday (January 31), stating that Marsh’s injury has not responded adequately to rehabilitation efforts, necessitating an extended period of rest and recovery.
Injury details
Marsh has struggled with back problems throughout the season, which were exacerbated during the recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India. Despite being managed with reduced bowling loads, he was ultimately dropped for the final Test in Sydney after scoring just 73 runs in seven innings. His last appearance prior to this announcement was a solit༒ary game in the Big Bash League (BBL) 2025 on January 7, where he was dismissed for a duck.
CA’s statement noted that Marsh’s lower back pain flared up in recent weeks, prompting the National Selection Panel (NSP) to make the long-term decision to withdraw him from the tournament. “Mitchell Marsh has been ruled out of the upcoming ICC Men’s Champions Trophy with ongoing lower back pain and dysfunction,” CA stated. “He will now undergo a period of further rest and rehabilitation as part of his return to play plan.”
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Impact on Australia’s squad
Marsh’s absence leaves a notable gap in Australia’s lineup, particularly as he has served as both a key all-rounder and T20I captain. With regular captain Pat Cummins also nursing an injury, there are discussions about who might lead the team in Marsh’s absence. Steve Smith is a potential candidate for ca🐽ptaincy if Cummins is unable to participate.
Cricket Australia is expected to announce a replacement for Marsh ahead of February 12 – the deadline for final squad submissions.
