Mitchell Starc’s decision to withdraw from the 2025 Champions Trophy due to “personal reasons” sparked speculation, but his wife, Australia women’s captain Alyssa Healy, has firmly put the rumors to rest. Addressing the buzz around Starc’s absence, Healy clarified that it has nothing to do with their family, including pregnancy, and pointed instead to his heavy workload in recent months.
Starc has been Australia’s workhorse, playing all five Tests of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India and then two more in Sri Lanka within just three months. However, Cricket Australia’s (CA) announcement citing “personal reasons” led to widespread speculation online. With Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins already ruled out due to injury management, Australia’s fast-bowling unit is looking considerably depleted.
Speaking on the Willow Talk podcast, Alyssa Healy addressed the swirling rumors with humor. “Don’t look at me, I don’t know,” she laughed. “I haven’t asked him yet! He went to Sri Lanka and did that leg of the tour, so yeah, he is fine, everyone.” She also dismissed suggestions that her pregnancy might be a factor, jokingly referencing former cricketer Brad Haddin. “Hadds suggested maybe I was pregnant, but I can guarantee that I’m not. We’re fine… move on.”
ALSO READ: Virat Kohli Praises Rajat Patidar, Backs Him As RCB’s New Captain
Australia’s selection committee chair George Bailey emphasized that the team fully supports Starc’s decision. “We understand and respect Mitch’s choice. He is deeply committed to international cricket and always prioritizes performing for Australia.”
With Starc missing, Steve Smith will lead a squad that lacks its usual firepower in the pace department. Spencer Johnson, Nathan Ellis, Sean Abbott, and Ben Dwarshuis make up a second-string fast-bowling attack. The team was dealt another setback when all-rounder Marcus Stoinis announced his retirement just before the tournament, leading to Aaron Hardie’s inclusion.
“While disappointing, this also presents a great opportunity for other players to step up and perform on the world stage,” George Bailey added.
ALSO READ: Rajat Patidar On RCB Captaincy: Learning From Virat Kohli and Gaining Leadership Experience
Australia’s Champions Trophy squad: Steve Smith (c), Sean Abbott, Alex Carey, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Aaron Hardie, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Tanveer Sangha, Matthew Short, and Adam Zampa. Travelling reserve: Cooper Connolly.
