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Huge Setback For Australia! Matthew Short Likely To Miss Champions Trophy Semi-Final

Rajgeeta Yadav

Matthew Short Likely To Miss Champions Trophy Semi-Finals [Source: @TheYorkerBall/x.com]Matthew Short Likely To Miss Champions Trophy Semi-Finals [Source: @TheYorkerBall/x.com]

Australia faces a big setback ahead of their ICC Champions Trophy semi-final, as star opener Matthew Short is likely to miss the crucial match due to injury. Short suffered a quad injury during the rain-affected game against Afghanistan, putting his availability for the semi-final against either India or New Zealand in doubt.

Australia secured their spot in the 2025 Champions Trophy semi-finals after their match against Afghanistan was washed out at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium on February 27. However, the celebrations were overshadowed by concerns over Short’s injury.

The in-form batter got hurt late in Afghanistan’s innings but still came out to open the batting with Travis Head. However, he struggled to run properly between the wickets and relied mostly on hitting boundaries. He managed to score 20 runs off 15 balls before getting out.

After the match, Australian captain Steve Smith admitted that Short’s recovery in time for the semi-final would be tough. Speaking at the post-match presentation, Smith said, 

“I think he’ll be struggling. We saw tonight he wasn’t moving very well. It’s probably going to be too soon for him to recover.”

Who Could Replace Matthew Short?

With Short likely to miss the semi-final, Australia has a few backup options. Jake Fraser-McGurk, who was already included in the squad as a replacement for the injured Mitchell Marsh, could step in as the new opener.

Another option is all-rounder Aaron Hardie, who could come into the playing XI if someone else is pushed up to open.

“We’ve got a few guys available to fill the role,” Smith added.

If Short is ruled out for the rest of the tournament, Australia might bring in Cooper Connolly as a traveling reserve. Connolly, a left-handed batter and left-arm spinner, could help balance the team.