Australian Head Coach Andrew McDonald has revealed that it is “heavily unlikely” that Pat Cummins will participate in the upcoming Champions Trophy. Discussions are underway to appoint either Travis Head or Steven Smith as captain for the tournament. Speaking to SEN, McDonald said,“Pat Cummins hasn’t been able to resume any type of bowling, so he’s heavily unlikely. That means we do need a captain. Steve Smith and Travis Head are the two we’ve been having conversations with while building out the Champions Trophy team, along with Pat back home. They’re the two we’re looking at for that leadership role.” Cummins has been unavailable for Australia’s ongoing two-match Test series against Sri Lanka due to an ankle injury and the birth of his second child. Smith has taken charge and led Australia to a dominant victory in the opening Test in Galle, winning by an innings and 242 runs.McDonald said,“But as I said, Patty is hugely unlikely, which is a bit of a shame. We also have Josh Hazlewood, who is still recovering. The medical updates will come in the next couple of days, and we’ll finalize everything,”Australia squad for Champions Trophy 2025Australia has included both Hazlewood and Cummins in the squad for the 2025 Champions Trophy. However, according to the rules, squads can be adjusted until February 12. The squad features maiden ICC event call-ups for Matt Short and Aaron Hardie, along with the inclusion of pacer Nathan Ellis. These three replace David Warner, who has retired, Cameron Green, sidelined due to back surgery, and Sean Abbott.Squad: Alex Carey (wicketkeeper), Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Matthew Short, Steven Smith, Aaron Hardie, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Pat Cummins (captain), Nathan Ellis, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, Adam Zampa