Finch criticizes Stoinis's sudden ODI retirement ahead of Champions Trophy
What's the story
Former Australian captain Aaron Finch has criticized Marcus Stoinis's sudden retirement from One Day Internationals (ODIs), which came just days before the Champions Trophy 2025.
Meanwhile, Stoinis was originally included in Australia's squad for the tournament.
However, Finch raised his concerns during an appearance on ESPN Australia's Around The Wicket podcast.
Finch's concerns come at a time when the Australian team is already dealing with major setbacks due to injuries to key players.
Here's more.
Communication lapse
Finch suggests Stoinis's decision was not spontaneous
Finch opined Stoinis should have informed the team management about his retirement plans sooner.
He said, "When you've had the faith put in you by the selection, the coach and the captain - maybe a little bit more of a heads up?"
Finch further stated, "I would be surprised if it was an off the cuff decision as well, I am sure there would have been planning down the track."
Retirement reasons
Finch speculates on reasons behind Stoinis's retirement
Finch speculated the demanding cricket schedule could have played a role in Stoinis's decision to retire.
He observed that Stoinis had preferred T20 cricket in the last few years.
"For me, if you look at Marcus Stoinis, he's preferred to play the T20 route," Finch said.
"Being in Pakistan, then straight to India after a summer of cricket at home, that can potentially be four-five months on the road, so maybe that contributed to the decision," Finch added.
Squad update
Australia replace Stoinis with Aaron Hardie
After Stoinis's retirement, Australia have included Aaron Hardie as his replacement in the squad for the Champions Trophy.
The revised 15-member team was finalized on February 12.
This change comes as a part of Australia's strategy to adapt to unforeseen developments and keep a strong lineup for the upcoming tournament.
Stats
A look at his ODI stats
Stoinis, known for his explosive batting, made his ODI debutin the 2015 Leeds game against England.
He racked up 1,495 runs from 71 ODIs at an average of 26.69.
The tally includes a ton and six half-centuries. Stoinis's career-best of 146* came only in his second ODI (against New Zealand in Auckland in 2017).
The Aussie all-rounder also took 48 wickets with his medium-pace bowling.
Stoinis has the second-highest individual score at number seven in ODIs (146* against NZ).
Squad
Australia's revamped squad for Champions Trophy
Australia's Champions Trophy squad: Steve Smith (c), Sean Abbott, Alex Carey, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Aaron Hardie, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Tanveer Sangha, and Matthew Short.
Adam Zampa and Cooper Connolly will also join the team as traveling reserves.