Published: Mar 01, 2025, 09:31 AM (IST)
Edited: Mar 01, 2025, 09:32 AM (IST)
Australia has faced a massive blow to their team ahead of the Champions Trophy 2025 semifinal, as Matthew Short has been ruled out of the tournament. Matthew faced a hamstring injury during Australia’s last league match against Afghanistan.
When coming to open for the team in a small chase, he was seen not comfortable, and struggled to run. His feet were not moving well and he found it difficult to play. Matthew scored 20 runs in the 15 balls he played.
Australian team can see Jake Fraser McGurk, or allrounder Aaron Hardie as the potential players to replace Matthew. He previously had a decent outing against England, as he played an inning of 63 runs in Australia’s winning chase of 352.
“I think he’ll be struggling. I think we saw tonight he wasn’t moving very well. I think it’s probably going to be too quick between games for him to recover,” said Australia captain Steve Smith.
As of now, Australia has qualified for the semifinal after their last match got washed out due to rain. After bowling out Afghanistan for 273, Australia reached 109/1 in 12.5 overs. Rain then stepped in and continued, causing the match to be called off. Australia’s previous match against South Africa was a similar case of washout, but that match was abandoned without a single ball being bowled.
As of semifinals, Australia’s opponent will be confirmed after India vs New Zealand clash on March 2 (Sunday). If South Africa wins over England, they will face the winner of the India vs New Zealand (Group A) match. However, if South Africa loses, the Baggy Greens will face the loser of the Group A clashing team.
