Australia's Champions Trophy aspirations suffered a significant setback as captain Pat Cummins and premier fast bowler Josh Hazlewood were officially ruled out of the tournament on Thursday (February 6), deepening the team's ongoing injury crisis. Leadership vacuum The absence of Cummins, still nursing an ankle injury from the recent Border Gavaskar Trophy, leaves the defending ODI World Cup champions facing a leadership dilemma. Either Steve Smith or Travis Head is expected to take the helm when Australia begin their campaign against England on February 22 in Lahore. Multiple setbacks The announcement compounds Australia's selection woes, coming shortly after Marcus Stoinis's unexpected retirement from ODI cricket and Mitchell Marsh's withdrawal due to a back injury. Hazlewood, who last appeared in the drawn Brisbane Test against India, continues to battle a persistent calf strain. Cameron Green was already expected to miss the season and was not part of the team selection discussions. Selection committee's stance National selection panel chairman George Bailey acknowledged the situation's gravity while maintaining an optimistic outlook. "Unfortunately Pat, Josh and Mitch are managing some ongoing injuries and haven't come up in time for the Champions Trophy," Bailey said, adding that the circumstances present opportunities for other players to showcase their talents at a global event. Tournament schedule Australia's Champions Trophy fixtures: IPL implications The extended rehabilitation period required for both fast bowlers casts doubt over their participation in the upcoming Indian Premier League. Cummins, slated to captain Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Hazlewood, Royal Challengers Bengaluru's ₹12.50 crore acquisition, may need to prioritise recovery ahead of Australia's World Test Championship final against South Africa at Lord's in mid-June.Original Article