In many ways, Australia captain Steve Smith’s decision to call a part-time bowler – at best – to bowl the final over of an innings reflects the state of the Australian team at the Champions Trophy. Regular skipper Pat Cummins and key pacer Josh Hazlewood are missing through injury.

In the final fixture of the first round of games at the ICC Men's Champions Trophy 2025, Australia fought back to script a remarkable win.

Since Australia won the 2023 ODI World Cup, 25 players have turned out across 13 50-over games heading to the Champions Trophy, and two smashings by Sri Lanka last week have cast doubt about their chances of taking out the ICC tournament.