Marcus Stoinis, Cooper Connolly [Source: @ICC, @cricbuzz/x.com]
In what comes as shocking news to the cricketing world, Australian star all-rounder Marcus Stoinis has announced his retirement from ODIS with immediate effect. This could be a huge setback for Australia regarding their Champions Trophy 2025 plans, as he was an important part of the team's squad.
With Pat Cummins and Mitchell Marsh already doubtful for the tournament, Stoinis' retirement is a huge setback. In this article, we will take a look at the players who could replace the star all-rounder in the CT 2025 squad.
3. Cooper Conolly
Cooper Connolly made his Test debut against Sri Lanka [Source: @ICC/x.com]
This young Australian all-rounder has made a name for himself with his batting under pressure and ability to bowl some effective overs. Cooper Connolly can be a great replacement for Stoinis as he can float in the batting line-up for the recently retired Stoinis and bowl a few very effective overs.
Matches | Runs | Average | Strike Rate |
---|---|---|---|
10 | 351 | 50.14 | 131.36 |
Table - Cooper Connolly's Stats In BBL 2024-25
Cooper Connolly was in brilliant batting form during the recently concluded BBL edition. He scored 351 runs in the tournament at an average of 50.14 and a strike rate of 131.46. One of the best parts of Connolly's campaign was that he played some impactful knocks under pressure, making him a prime contender to be a part of the Australian squad for the Champions Trophy 2025.
2. Tim David
Tim David [Source: @YaariSports/x.com]
Tim David is known for his finishing prowess. David can come lower down the order and change the complexion of any game with his power-hitting. The right-handed lower middle-order batter can bowl a few overs with the ball if needed. However, he has not been involved in too much bowling recently.
Matches | Runs | Average | Strike Rate |
---|---|---|---|
11 | 254 | 42.33 | 177.62 |
Table - Tim David's Stats In BBL 2024-25
David's recent BBL form was also good. In a title-winning run for the Hurricanes, David scored 254 runs in 9 innings with a more than decent average and strike rate. His ability to impact a match from any stage makes him a good replacement for Stoinis, as he can take up the finisher role that the all-rounder would have played.
1. Mitchell Owen
Mitchell Owen [Source: @ESPNcricinfo/x.com]
The young Australian batter impressed with his performance in the BBL 2024-25. Mitchell Owen was impactful in some of the crucial games for the Hurricanes during the tournament and delivered his best in the summit clash of the tournament. His awe-trucking power hitting took the Hurricanes quickly past the target, allowing them to lift their first-ever BBL trophy.
Matches | Runs | Average | Strike Rate |
---|---|---|---|
11 | 452 | 45.20 | 203.60 |
Table - Mithchell Owen's Stats In BBL 2024-25
A look at the Australia squad gives us the idea that Matthew Short would be their opener with Travis Head. If Owen gets a chance in the tournament, he can be used at the opening spot in Short's place, and they could strengthen the middle-order by drafting in someone else for some of the other players who might miss out on the tournament.