Champions Trophy: Cooper Connolly replaces injured Short in Australia's squad
What's the story
The Australian cricket team has included spin-bowling allrounder Cooper Connolly in their Champions Trophy squad.
The decision comes as a replacement for opener Matt Short, who is ruled out with a quad injury.
Connolly, 21, who made his ODI debut in England last year, was initially named a traveling reserve for the tournament.
Here are further details.
Official approval
ICC approves Connolly's inclusion in the squad
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially approved Connolly's inclusion in Australia's Champions Trophy squad.
The ICC said, "The Event Technical Committee of the ICC Men's Champions Trophy 2025 has approved Cooper Connolly as a replacement for Matthew Short in the Australia squad."
This comes after Short was ruled out due to an injury to his left quadriceps.
Match preview
Australia's 1st semi-final opponent
Australia's first semi-final opponent in the Champions Trophy is Team India.
After Short's injury, the team will now have to find a new opener for this important match, which will be played in Dubai on March 4.
Australia have another potential opener in Jake Fraser-McGurk, but picking him could leave them without a bowling option.
This makes Connolly's inclusion even more important as his left-arm spin could be an invaluable asset in Dubai.
Team lineup
Updated Australia squad for the Champions Trophy
The revised Australia squad for the Champions Trophy now features Cooper Connolly.
Led by Steve Smith, the team also comprises Sean Abbott, Alex Carey, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Spencer Johnson, Aaron Hardie, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne Glenn Maxwell Tanveer Sangha Adam Zampa and Connolly.
This eclectic mix demonstrates Australia's depth and versatility as they gear up for their next match in the tournament.