In a high-octane clash at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, Australia pulled off a sensational 5-wicket victory over England in the Champions Trophy 2025, successfully chasing a massive target of 352 runs in just 47.3 overs. The game was packed with breathtaking moments, from Ben Duckett’s stunning century to Jos Inglis’ match-winning knock, making it a memorable contest for cricket fans worldwide.
England’s Commanding Batting Performance
After being asked to bat first, England made full use of the batting-friendly conditions and posted an imposing total of 351/8 in 50 overs. The innings revolved around Ben Duckett, who played a magnificent knock of 165 off 143 balls, anchoring England’s effort with 20 fours and 3 sixes. His ability to rotate strike and accelerate at crucial moments kept England in control.
Apart from Duckett, key contributions came from:
- Joe Root (68 off 78) – Played a steady knock, supporting Duckett in building a solid platform.
- Jos Buttler (23 off 21) – Came in with an attacking mindset but fell while trying to accelerate.
- Jofra Archer (21 off 10) – Provided the finishing touches, smashing quick runs towards the end.
- Liam Livingstone (14 off 17) and Brydon Carse (8 off 7) – Made small but valuable contributions.
Despite England’s strong total, Australia’s bowlers did well to prevent them from reaching 380+, which at one stage looked possible.
Australian Bowlers Keep England in Check
Though England managed to post a 350+ total, the Australian bowlers struck at key moments:
- Ben Dwarshuis (3 wickets) – Bowled with great accuracy, taking crucial wickets, including Philip Salt early on.
- Adam Zampa (2 wickets) – Controlled the middle overs, dismissing Joe Root and Harry Brook.
- Marnus Labuschagne and Glenn Maxwell also picked up crucial wickets to break England’s momentum.
Australia’s Sensational Chase
Chasing 352, Australia had a shaky start, losing Travis Head (6 off 5) and Steven Smith (5 off 6) early. However, the middle order ensured stability while maintaining an aggressive approach.
Key Performances in Australia’s Chase:
- Jos Inglis (120 off 86) – Man of the Match 🏆
- The hero of the chase, he played a fearless knock, smashing boundaries at regular intervals. His innings included 12 fours and 4 sixes, as he countered England’s bowling attack with ease.
- Alex Carey (69 off 63) – Provided a much-needed partnership alongside Inglis, absorbing pressure and keeping the scoreboard ticking.
- Matthew Short (63 off 66) – Anchored the innings after early wickets, ensuring Australia stayed in the hunt.
- Marnus Labuschagne (47 off 45) – Played a handy knock before falling to Adil Rashid.
- Glenn Maxwell (32 off 15) – A typical Maxwell finish, striking the ball cleanly and taking Australia over the line with ease. His knock ensured no late drama in the chase.
Turning Points of the Match
- Ben Duckett’s Century: His innings ensured England reached a match-winning total.
- Jos Inglis’ Counterattack: His aggressive batting put Australia in command.
- Glenn Maxwell’s Finisher Role: His quickfire cameo sealed the deal.
Final Match Summary
- England: 351/8 (50 overs) – Duckett (165), Root (68); Dwarshuis (3 wkts), Zampa (2 wkts).
- Australia: 356/5 (47.3 overs) – Inglis (120), Carey (69), Maxwell (32*); England’s bowlers struggled to contain runs.
- Result: 🏆 Australia won by 5 wickets.
- Man of the Match: Jos Inglis (120 off 86).
Conclusion
This victory gives Australia a strong start in the Champions Trophy 2025, while England will need to regroup and bounce back in their upcoming fixtures. The match was a perfect display of high-scoring cricket, intelligent batting, and calculated aggression, making it one of the most entertaining contests of the tournament so far.
Stay tuned for more updates from the Champions Trophy 2025!
Also Read: England Posts 351/8 Against Australia in Champions Trophy 2025
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