The Champions Trophy 2025 is all set to start from 19 February in Pakistan and all the teams are looking forward to enter the tournament with their best players but the Australian team is facing a little problem as Mitch Marsh has been ruled out of the tournament due to injury.
While there are discussions going on in regard to Marsh’s replacement, the former Australian captain Ricky Ponting has suggested that the national team should consider an unexpected selection by bringing in uncapped all-rounder Mitch Owen to replace the injured Mitch Marsh for the upcoming ICC Men’s Champions Trophy.
Mitch Marsh, a crucial member of Australia’s limited-overs squad, was ruled out last month due to a back injury. With the final squad submission deadline approaching on February 12, selectors are yet to name a replacement. Ricky Ponting believes Mitch Owen, who showcased exceptional form in the recent Big Bash League, could make the transition to international cricket seamlessly.
Ricky Ponting pointed out Mitch Owen’s remarkable performance in the BBL, where he opened the batting for the Hobart Hurricanes and dominated the tournament with 452 runs at a staggering strike rate of 203.60. His contributions weren’t limited to batting as he also claimed three wickets with his medium pace, earning himself a contract with the Paarl Royals in the SA20 league.
While acknowledging that it remains uncertain which direction the selectors will take, Ricky Ponting emphasised that Owen’s skills as an all-rounder make him a viable replacement. With Marsh frequently occupying a top-three batting position in one-day cricket, Owen’s experience of opening the batting in T20 matches and Tasmania’s domestic Marsh Cup further solidifies his credentials.
Although Ricky Ponting admitted he would be surprised if Mitch Owen gets ultimately selected, he expressed confidence that the selectors are aware of his potential as a high quality alternative.
Australia is set to begin their Champions Trophy campaign against England on February 22 at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
