Inglis’s Blistering Century Seals Thrilling Australian Chase Against England

Lahore witnessed a run-fest as Australia chased down a daunting 352-run target set by England with five wickets in hand and 15 balls to spare in a pulsating ICC Champions Trophy encounter. A magnificent, unbeaten century from Josh Inglis proved to be the decisive factor, overshadowing a brilliant innings from England’s Ben Duckett.

England, batting first, posted a formidable 351/8 in their 50 overs. Ben Duckett was the star of the show, crafting a breathtaking 165 off just 143 balls, studded with 21 boundaries and 17 sixes. Phil Salt, Jamie Smith, and Joe Root provided valuable contributions, but it was Duckett’s explosive knock that propelled England to such a commanding total.

Australia’s chase got off to a shaky start, losing Travis Head and Steven Smith early. However, Marnus Labuschagne and Matthew Short steadied the ship with a solid partnership. When both were dismissed, the game was still in the balance. But then, Josh Inglis rose to the occasion, playing a masterful innings of 120 not out off just 86 balls. His innings was a whirlwind of boundaries, including 13 fours and 4 sixes, and he found a capable partner in Alex Carey, who contributed a valuable 69. Glenn Maxwell’s late cameo of 32 not out ensured Australia crossed the finish line with ease.

England’s bowlers struggled to contain the Australian onslaught. While Adil Rashid bowled economically, the rest of the attack was put to the sword by Inglis and Carey. Australia’s batting depth proved to be the difference between the two sides.

Inglis was deservingly awarded the Player of the Match for his match-winning century. His innings was a testament to his composure and ability to perform under pressure. This victory gives Australia a vital boost in the Champions Trophy, while England will be left to rue their missed opportunities.

Australia vs England Match highlights: Champion Trophy 2025

England Batting:

• Ben Duckett: 165 runs off 143 balls. A spectacular innings featuring 21 fours and 17 sixes. He provided the backbone of England’s imposing total.
• Phil Salt: 10 runs off 6 balls. A quick start, but his innings was cut short early.
• Jamie Smith: 15 runs off 13 balls. Contributed briefly before falling.
• Joe Root: 68 runs off 78 balls. A steady innings, providing stability to the middle order.
• Harry Brook: 36 runs off 16 balls. A brief but aggressive knock.
• Jos Buttler: 23 runs off 21 balls. A short, brisk innings.
• Liam Livingstone: 14 runs off 17 balls. Struggled to get going.
• Brydon Carse: 8 runs off 7 balls. A late cameo.
• Jofra Archer: 21 not out off 10 balls. A late flourish.

Australia Bowling:

• Spencer Johnson: 0 wickets for 54 runs in 7 overs.
• Ben Dwarshuis: 3 wickets for 66 runs in 10 overs. The most successful bowler.
• Nathan Ellis: 0 wickets for 51 runs in 10 overs.
• Glenn Maxwell: 1 wicket for 58 runs in 7 overs.
• Adam Zampa: 2 wickets for 64 runs in 10 overs.
• Matthew Short: 0 wickets for 7 runs in 1 over.
• Marnus Labuschagne: 2 wickets for 41 runs in 5 overs. 

Australia Batting:

• Matthew Short: 63 runs off 66 balls. A solid opening knock.
• Travis Head: 6 runs off 5 balls. An early dismissal.
• Steven Smith: 5 runs off 6 balls. Another early wicket.
• Marnus Labuschagne: 47 runs off 45 balls. A stabilizing innings.
• Josh Inglis: 120 not out off 86 balls. A match-winning century, including 13 fours and 4 sixes.
• Alex Carey: 69 runs off 63 balls. A crucial supporting innings.
• Glenn Maxwell: 32 not out off 15 balls. A quickfire finish.

England Bowling:

• Mark Wood: 0 wickets for 75 runs in 9.3 overs. Expensive.
• Jofra Archer: 1 wicket for 82 runs in 10 overs. Also expensive.
• Brydon Carse: 1 wicket for 69 runs in 7 overs. Struggled to contain the scoring.
• Adil Rashid: 1 wicket for 47 runs in 10 overs. The most economical bowler.
• Liam Livingstone: 1 wicket for 47 runs in 7 overs.
• Joe Root: 0 wickets for 26 runs in 4 overs.