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New KKR Recruit And DC Star Set To Replace Injured Australia Stars In Champions Trophy

Soumyajit Dutta

Spencer Johnson and Jake Fraser-McGurk can feature in Australia's Champions Trophy Squad [Source: @Knightsvibe/X.com]Spencer Johnson and Jake Fraser-McGurk can feature in Australia's Champions Trophy Squad [Source: @Knightsvibe/X.com]

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Australia’s fast-bowling stocks for the 2025 Champions Trophy have suffered a seismic blow with injuries sidelining veterans Pat Cummins (ankle) and Josh Hazlewood (hip, calf). In their absence, as per Code Sports, Spencer Johnson, whom KKR have bought for INR 2.80 crore have emerged as a pivotal figure in the revamped squad, tasked with spearheading the attack alongside Mitchell Starc.

With Mitchell Marsh also missing the tournament due to a back injury, Jake Fraser-McGurk is also set to be included which provides Australia with an explosive top-order option. Notably, the young Aussie blood was retained by Delhi for INR 9 crore in IPL 2025 mega auction.

Can McGurk And Spencer's Inclusion Fill The Void For Australia?

While McGurk's start to international cricket has been modest, he has the potential to thrive in the conditions of Pakistan. His aggressive batting style mirrors the role Marsh played for Australia, and McGurk’s ability to score quickly could make him a key player in the team’s middle overs.

The 28-year-old Johnson, who made his ODI debut in 2023, might see selectors banking on his raw pace, swing, and tactical versatility to counter Pakistan’s pitches. Despite limited international exposure, Johnson’s reputation as a multi-phase threat, capable of hooping the new ball, nailing yorkers, and deploying deceptive slower deliveries, has earned him a golden opportunity to cement his place.

Johnson and McGurk's Career So Far

Johnson has made an impression in limited opportunities across different formats. Although he has only played two ODIs, his T20I record is more established, with 14 wickets in 8 games at an impressive economy rate of 8.96. Johnson’s FC and List A numbers further illustrate his potential, with notable performances such as 7/47 in First-Class cricket.

McGurk’s batting stats show promise, despite his underwhelming ODI start. In five ODIs, he has managed 87 runs, but his T20I and List A records reveal a more aggressive side. With a strike rate of 155.35 in ODIs and 143.03 in T20Is, McGurk’s ability to hit big and score quickly could be key for Australia in the Champions Trophy. His experience in List A cricket, with 563 runs from 25 matches, also adds to his credentials.

Moreover, Australia’s gamble on Johnson and McGurk underscores a broader shift toward blending youth with experience. With two Aussie stars sidelined, the Champions Trophy offers the youngsters a platform to transform their promise into permanence.