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England`s cricket team prepares for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, facing Australia amid injury challenges and strategic shifts.

England`s cricket team is gearing up for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, facing a crucial opening match against Australia on February 22, 2025, at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. The team is placed in Group B alongside formidable opponents Afghanistan and South Africa, needing to secure a top-two finish to advance to the semi-finals.

Under the leadership of coach Brendon McCullum, England`s approach has shifted to the aggressive style known as "Bazball." However, their recent form has raised concerns, highlighted by a disappointing 3-0 series loss to India. Key player Ben Stokes is sidelined due to a hamstring injury, while opener Ben Duckett has returned to fitness after recovering from a groin issue. The return of Joe Root is expected to bolster the batting lineup, with captain Jos Buttler set to bat at number three, allowing him to focus on his batting while sharing wicketkeeping duties with Phil Salt and Jamie Smith.

England`s bowling attack will heavily rely on leg-spinner Adil Rashid and the pace duo of Jofra Archer and Mark Wood, as they lack a left-arm seamer. With all teams in Group B yet to play, the standings currently show zero points for Afghanistan, Australia, England, and South Africa. For more insights on the tournament, check out the points table and the Bazball strategy.

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