Legendary Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc has made the tough decision to not participate in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy, citing privacy as the reason for his withdrawal. With two other key bowlers, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, already ruled out due to injuries, Starc's absence is a major blow for Australia's campaign. In his place, the team has called up Spencer Johnson, Sean Abbott, and Ben Dwarshuis, with Johnson seen as a potential replacement for Starc. Despite the loss of a key player, Australia's chief selector has expressed support for Starc's decision and sees it as an opportunity for someone else to make their mark in the tournament.
Mitchell Starc Withdraws from ICC Champions Trophy, Citing Privacy Concerns
Legendary Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc has made the difficult decision to withdraw from the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy, citing privacy as the reason for his withdrawal. The news comes as a major blow to Australia's campaign, as Starc is one of the team's key players.
Background
Starc has been a mainstay in the Australian bowling attack for several years, and has played a crucial role in the team's recent success. He was named Player of the Match in the 2015 World Cup final, and was instrumental in Australia's Ashes victory in 2015.
In recent months, Starc has been at the center of media attention, both for his on-field performances and his off-field activities. In particular, his relationship with fashion model Alyssa Healy has been the subject of intense speculation.
Reasons for Withdrawal
In a statement released on Wednesday, Starc explained that he had made the decision to withdraw from the Champions Trophy in order to protect his privacy.
"I have made the difficult decision to not participate in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy," Starc said. "I feel that the intense media scrutiny has impacted my ability to focus on my cricket, and I need some time away from the spotlight to regain my peace of mind."
Reaction
Australia's chief selector, Rod Marsh, has expressed support for Starc's decision.
"Mitchell is a world-class cricketer, and we understand that he needs some time to sort things out. We support his decision, and we hope that he will be back playing for Australia soon," Marsh said.
Replacement
In Starc's absence, Australia has called up Spencer Johnson, Sean Abbott, and Ben Dwarshuis. Johnson is seen as a potential replacement for Starc, as he is a left-arm fast bowler with similar qualities to the injured star.
Top 5 FAQs
1. Why did Mitchell Starc withdraw from the ICC Champions Trophy?
Starc withdrew from the Champions Trophy due to privacy concerns.
2. Who will replace Starc in the Australian team?
Spencer Johnson has been called up to replace Starc.
3. What are Starc's reasons for needing time away from the spotlight?
Starc has not disclosed the specific reasons for his decision to withdraw, but he has stated that the intense media scrutiny has impacted his ability to focus on his cricket.
4. How will Starc's absence affect Australia's chances of winning the Champions Trophy?
Starc is a key player in the Australian bowling attack, and his absence will be a significant blow to the team's chances of winning the tournament.
5. When is Starc expected to return to the Australian team?
Starc has not announced when he will return to the Australian team.
In their highly-anticipated debut together on the Los Angeles Lakers, basketball superstars Luka Doncic and LeBron James did not disappoint, with their incredible passing and basketball IQ leading to a dominant win over the Utah Jazz. Center Jaxson Hayes was the biggest beneficiary, scoring 12 points with the help of Doncic and James' assists. Hayes praised the "extraordinarily fun" experience of playing with the two star players and their ability to create open shots for their teammates. Doncic's presence on the Lakers also allows for even more opportunities for Hayes to excel on the court, as he can use his athleticism as a rim-runner while Doncic's drives draw defenders away.
In a major blow to Team India, fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah has been left out of the squad for the ICC Men's Champions Trophy 2025. The decision was taken after discussions between the board's medical staff, selectors and team management. Harshit Rana has been named as his replacement, ending speculations about the pacer's availability for the tournament. This comes after the selectors didn't want to take any risks with an unfit player, especially considering Bumrah's past injuries and recent inability to start bowling full tilt.
The first ODI between Sri Lanka and Australia is underway at R Premadasa Stadium. While Sri Lanka is led by Charith Asalanka, Steve Smith is leading the Australian team in the absence of Pat Cummins. Sri Lanka won the toss and elected to bat first. Follow live updates on the Sony Sports Network or on the Sony LIV app and website.
Australian Pacer Starc Withdraws From Champions Trophy, Five New Players Added to Squad The Australian team has suffered yet another loss as Mitchell Starc has withdrawn from the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy due to personal reasons. The experienced pacer's absence has resulted in five new players being added to the squad, causing a significant change in the team's composition. Despite this setback, captain Pat Cummins is confident in the strong core of experienced players and is open to adapting the playing XI according to the opposition and conditions.
A significant change is set to take place in the world of European soccer, as the long-standing Swiss agency for selling Champions League rights will be replaced by New York-based Relevent Sports, owned by Miami Dolphins owner Stephen Ross. This comes after the UEFA-ECA joint venture awarded Relevent exclusive negotiating rights for the global commercial rights to the UEFA men's club competitions for the period of 2027-2033. This deal marks a major shift in the marketing of the prestigious Champions League and other European competitions, with revenues expected to reach record highs.
Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has endorsed all-rounder Axar Patel for a spot in the upcoming Champions Trophy, suggesting that he could potentially fill the crucial role of a left-handed batter in the middle order. Manjrekar highlighted Axar's impressive batting performance in the first ODI against England, where he hit a quickfire 52 off just 47 balls, and praised his ability to play spin. He also hinted that wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant may have to wait for his chance due to Axar's emergence. The Indian team could potentially make a couple of changes for the 2nd ODI, with captain Virat Kohli returning from injury and potentially pushing young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal down the order.
The much-awaited Champions League play-offs have officially begun with 16 teams competing for the final eight spots in the next stage. Eight teams, including Liverpool and Arsenal, have already secured their places while Aston Villa clinched the final spot with a victory over Celtic. The draws for the last 16, quarter-finals, and semi-finals will take place on 21 February, setting up exciting match-ups for the remaining teams. Villa will face either Atalanta, Borussia Dortmund, Sporting Lisbon or Club Brugge in the last 16.
As the UEFA Champions League knockout phase approaches, all eyes will be on the highly-anticipated new ball at the center of it all. Created by Adidas, the ball pays tribute to the vibrant host city of the final, Munich, with its stunning design and expertly crafted technology. Not only is it a visual masterpiece, it also leads the way in sustainability efforts, making it a true game-changer for the sport. Before its debut, this UCL ball has been thoroughly tested and proven to be a triumph in every aspect.
Star cricketer Kane Williamson's unbeaten 133 led New Zealand to a six-wicket victory against South Africa in the tri-series ODI match on Monday. Despite South African opener Matthew Breetzke's record debut score of 150, New Zealand secured a spot in the final with their captain's brilliant performance. The match, played at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, was filled with excitement as the team progresses to the next stage.