Adam Zampa is looking for fresh match-winners to step up for Australia in the upcoming Champions Trophy, as the team faces the challenge of competing without their star pace trio.
With captain Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood sidelined due to injuries, and Mitchell Starc unavailable for personal reasons, Zampa remains the most experienced bowler in a depleted squad set to compete in Pakistan and the UAE.
Reflecting on the absence of Australia’s renowned quicks, the 32-year-old leg-spinner admitted it was a significant adjustment for the team.
“For almost a decade, we’ve had a very similar bowling attack at ICC events,” Zampa noted. “Not having those guys is a big loss, and we acknowledge that. But it’s also a great opportunity. If we play our roles well and contribute, that will be key. Hopefully, a match-winner will step up when needed.”
Australia’s pace attack for the tournament will feature Sean Abbott alongside the relatively inexperienced trio of Ben Dwarshuis, Spencer Johnson, and Nathan Ellis. All-rounder Aaron Hardie will also offer seam-bowling support.
Australia will kick off their campaign against arch-rivals and former ODI world champions England in Lahore on Saturday. Zampa relishes the high-stakes encounter, saying, “It’s always nice to play England first up. They’re a team you naturally get up for, and beating them is always special.”
