Australia enter Champions Trophy clash against England missing their legendary fast-bowling trio—but Steve Smith remains defiant.

Australia’s Champions Trophy opener against England on Saturday will see them without their legendary fast-bowling trio for the first time in 14 years—but stand-in captain Steve Smith insists there’s no cause for panic.

With Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood injured and Mitchell Starc withdrawing for personal reasons, Australia’s attack looks vastly different. The absence of their 525-wicket strong pace core leaves Nathan Ellis, Spencer Johnson, Sean Abbott, and Ben Dwarshuis to carry the burden.

“We’re missing a few gun fast bowlers, but we’re not worried,” said Smith, who has played alongside the trio for over a decade.

Despite their depleted attack, England captain Jos Buttler refuses to underestimate the Aussies.

“The three guys have been a pillar of success for a long time, but their replacements are top players,” Buttler stated.

Both teams enter the match after shaky warm-ups. Australia were thrashed by Sri Lanka, while England lost four consecutive ODI series.

With only two teams progressing from Group B, Saturday’s result is crucial. South Africa crushed Afghanistan in the opening fixture, leaving little room for error.Smith acknowledged Australia’s tendency to start tournaments slowly but warned: “You can’t afford that in the Champions Trophy. You must be switched on from game one.