3 Players who can replace Marcus Stoinis in Champions Trophy squad

3 Players who can replace Marcus Stoinis in Champions Trophy squad (Photo source: X(Twitter)

Australia’s preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 have hit another obstacle, with seam-bowling all-rounder Marcus Stoinis announcing his shocking retirement from ODIs. Cricket Australia (CA) confirmed on Thursday, February 06 that Stoinis, who played 74 ODIs for Australia, will now focus solely on T20 cricket. His decision left a gap in the squad just as they were fighting with multiple injury concerns ahead of the prestigious tournament. The 34-year-old, who made his ODI debut in 2015, played a crucial role in Australia’s 2023 ODI World Cup title-winning campaign.

Stoinis’ exit is the latest addition to Australia’s ongoing woes, with Mitchell Marsh already ruled out of the Champions Trophy due to a persistent back injury. Captain Pat Cummins is also heavily unlikely to feature, as he continues to recover from an ankle issue. Josh Hazlewood is in a race against time, while Steven Smith and Travis Head are being considered as possible stand-in captains.

The former champions would be looking to take quick action following the sudden exclusion of Stoinis from the Champions Trophy squad.

Also Check: Champions Trophy 2025: 3 players who can replace Pat Cummins as captain in Australia Squad

Here are three potential replacements for Marcus Stoinis in Australia’s Champions Trophy 2025 squad:

3. Cooper Connolly

Australia might look at Cooper Connolly as a replacement for Marcus Stoinis for the Champions Trophy 2025. The 22-year-old all-rounder has impressed everyone in recent times with both bat and ball, making him a valuable addition to the squad.

Connolly was in stellar form during BBL 2024-25, scoring 351 runs at an average of 50.14 and a strike rate of 131.46. He played crucial knocks under pressure, finishing as Perth Scorchers’ top run-scorer and winning the Player of the Tournament award. His ability to float in the batting order and contribute with the ball makes him a well-rounded choice. Recently, Connolly received his Baggy Green before the second Test against Sri Lanka in Galle International Stadium.

2. Beau Webster

Beau Webster could be a strong contender to replace Marcus Stoinis in Australia’s Champions Trophy 2025 squad. The 6’4″ pace-bowling all-rounder made an impressive international debut in the Sydney Test against India, top-scoring for Australia in the first innings and sealing victory with a crucial 39-run knock. His medium pace made him difficult to score off.

In white-ball cricket, Webster has been in fine form, delivering a solid Big Bash League 2024-25 for Melbourne Stars. With 1,317 List A runs at an average of 31.35 and a strike rate of 77, he provides stability and power-hitting. His recent domestic success and playing under pressure make him a like-for-like replacement Australia could seriously consider.

1. Tim David

28-year-old Tim David could be a strong candidate to come into Australia’s Champions Trophy squad. Known for his finishing ability, David can turn games around with his power-hitting in the lower middle order. His recent form in the BBL 2024-25 was impressive, scoring 254 runs in 9 innings at an average of 42.33 and a blistering strike rate of 177.62.

While he can bowl a few overs if needed, he has not been used frequently as a bowler. However, his ability to accelerate the scoring and provide crucial late-order runs makes him a viable option. With Stoinis unavailable, David could be a valuable addition to Australia’s squad for the upcoming tournament.

Disclaimer: The information presented in this news article is based on the author’s insights, analysis, and perspective. Readers are encouraged to evaluate the details thoughtfully and draw their own conclusions.

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