Australia replace injured Short with Cooper Connolly ahead of semi-final

Cricket Australia (CA) has announced all-rounder Cooper Connolly as the replacement for Matthew Short, who has been ruled out due to injury, ahead of their crucial ICC Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final clash against India.

Connolly, who was initially part of Australia’s travelling reserves, has been officially added to the squad following approval from the ICC Event Technical Committee.

Matthew Short suffered a calf injury while fielding during Australia’s rain-affected match against Afghanistan.

Despite batting in the run chase and scoring a quick 20 runs, he was visibly uncomfortable during his stay at the crease.

Cooper Connolly, who has represented Australia in three one-day internationals, could make an immediate entry into the playing XI, especially considering his ability to bowl spin.

Given the spin-friendly conditions in Dubai, Australia may prefer Connolly over specialist opener Jake Fraser-McGurk, who is also part of the squad but might not feature in the semi-final.

Australia’s Squad 
Steve Smith (c), Sean Abbott, Alex Carey, Cooper Connolly, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Aaron Hardie, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Tanveer Sangha, Adam Zampa.
With a high-stakes semi-final against India on the horizon, Australia's team combination will be crucial in their quest for a place in the Champions Trophy final.