Australia faced a setback ahead of their 2025 Champions Trophy semi-final against India, as opener Matthew Short has been ruled out due to a calf injury sustained while fielding in their last group-stage match against Afghanistan in Lahore. To fill the void, selectors have brought in 21-year-old batting all-rounder Cooper Connolly as Short’s replacement.
Matthew Short has been in fine form at the top for Australia in the tournament. He set the platform for their record-breaking chase of 352 against England with a crucial half-century and later contributed a quick 20 off 15 balls against Afghanistan, despite not being at full fitness.
ICC stated in an official media release:
“Cooper Connolly will replace Short, who suffered an injury during the Afghanistan encounter in the Champions Trophy, and was seen struggling on the field.”
”Short injured his calf while fielding and appeared hampered when making a quickfire 20 at the top of Australia’s batting order before rain saw the match with Afghanistan in Lahore being abandoned.”
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Cooper Connolly has featured in three ODIs, scoring just 10 runs and remaining wicketless with his left-arm orthodox spin.
India to face Australia in the 1st Champions Trophy 2025 semifinal on March 4 in Dubai
The semi-final lineup for the 2025 Champions Trophy was finalized on Sunday (March 2) after the conclusion of the last group-stage match between India and New Zealand. Rohit Sharma-led India defeated the Kiwis by 44 runs, setting up a clash with Australia in the first semi-final on Tuesday (March 4) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
Finishing second in the Group A standings, New Zealand will now take on Group B table-toppers South Africa in the crucial second semi-final on Wednesday (March 5) at the historic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, with a spot in the final at stake.
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