Australia have perhaps had the most difficult spell before the beginning of the Champions Trophy as plenty of key players were ruled out through injuries. A team known to back their proven performers has been left in tatters, as the absence of key personnel means a young-look side will spearhead the Aussie challenge for the coveted trophy. Two-time winners Australia will be without their biggest superstars like Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, and Mitchell Marsh all ruled out through injuries, whereas Marcus Stoinis recently announced his ODI retirement. Australia's love-affair with ICC trophies With 6 ODI World Cups, 2 Champions Trophies, 1 T20 World Cup and 1 World Test Championship, the Aussies have always been title contenders in ICC events, but this year's Champions Trophy feels a little different. Strengths Steve Smith will be captaining the Australian team. He has led the Kangaroos in 59 ODIs so far and has won 30 of them, his personal form will be key for the Aussies. Losing the ODI series to Sri Lanka by 0-2, and getting all out for 107 was hardly the ideal preparation for the Champions Trophy but batting will be the key strength for the two-time winners since their first-choice bowling attack was entirely ruled out. Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, and Alex Carey are all seasoned campaigners and have the potential to win matches individually. Weaknesses A lack of all-rounders and proven performers could hurt the Aussies. Glen Maxwell and Marnus Labuschagne have both been out of touch of late. Aaron Hardie, Nathan Ellis, Spencer Johnson, and Sean Abbott are all quality players but they're essentially a second-choice bowling attack at best. Opportunities With Adam Zampa the only specialist spinner in the side, the onus will be on Maxwell's performances. Not only would the white-ball specialist be needed to chip in with some runs, but his off-spin could also come in handy. Not to forget, he was the 5th highest wicket-taker for Australia in the ODI World Cup 2023. Threats Australia are placed in a tough group alongside England, Pakistan, Afghanistan and South Africa. They cannot afford to lose more than one game, otherwise qualifying for the semifinal would be very difficult. They will rely heavily on their experienced players and it will be a chance for the youngsters to prove their mettle.Original Article