Australia Stun England with Record Chase in Champions Trophy

Australia achieved a record-breaking chase in the Champions Trophy, overcoming England's total of 351/8 with five wickets to spare, thanks to Josh Inglis's unbeaten century.

Josh Inglis played a starring role as Australia achieved a record-breaking chase against England in the Champions Trophy on Saturday. Inglis's scintillating century helped Australia prevail in a thrilling Group B encounter, winning by five wickets. England's Ben Duckett had earlier smashed 165 to propel his team to 351-8, a record total in the tournament's history that was ultimately surpassed by Australia.

Inglis, who was born in Leeds to English parents, unleashed a devastating unbeaten 120 off 86 balls, while Alex Carey (69) and Matthew Short (63) contributed half-centuries to help Australia reach the target with 15 balls to spare. Australia captain Steve Smith reflected on the match, saying, “We thought around 350 was going to be chaseable for a moment. For a moment, it looked like they were probably going to get over 400, so we're pleased by that (bowling) effort.”

Smith expressed his team's confidence in their ability to chase down the target, adding, “And yeah, we were confident we could chase this down.” Australia's successful pursuit of the record total marked a thrilling victory in the Champions Trophy, with Inglis's century being a key factor in their triumph.

Brydon Carse struck in the 42nd over, dismissing Alex Carey, but Josh Inglis continued to blaze away, racing to a 77-ball century. He reached the milestone with a six off Jofra Archer, showcasing his impressive strokeplay. Glenn Maxwell then provided an unbeaten cameo of 32 off 15 balls, easing any pressure on Inglis and helping Australia cruise to victory. Inglis sealed the win with his sixth six, capping off a thrilling chase.

Australia had begun the match with a second-string pace attack, missing frontline quicks including skipper Pat Cummins. Stand-in captain Steve Smith opted to field, and the decision paid off early as Ben Dwarshuis (3-66) struck thanks to Carey's spectacular athleticism at mid-on. Carey leapt to his right and plucked a one-handed stunner on the edge of the 30-yard circle to dismiss Phil Salt. The bowler-fielder duo combined again to remove Jamie Smith, whose promotion to number three failed to yield the desired results.

Josh Inglis's first ODI ton gets Australia home in a classic! #ChampionsTrophy pic.twitter.com/Eo0dBkseOz

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) February 22, 2025

Ben Duckett and Joe Root (68) then formed a crucial partnership, combining in a stand of 158 to lay the foundation for England's imposing total. Duckett's innings was particularly impressive, as he smashed 165 to propel England to 351-8, a record total in the tournament's history. However, Australia's batting prowess ultimately proved too strong, as they chased down the target with ease.

Adam Zampa struck twice, dismissing Joe Root and Jos Buttler (23), but Ben Duckett continued to shine, eventually breaking New Zealander Nathan Astle's record for the highest individual score in the Champions Trophy. Duckett's impressive innings consisted of 17 fours and three sixes, before he fell lbw to Marnus Labuschagne after a 143-ball knock.

Jos Buttler acknowledged that England had posted a competitive total, saying, “I think we put up a pretty good score.” However, he also expressed concerns about the potential impact of dew on the playing conditions, adding, “It's a little bit wet and there was always the worry, if the dew does come in, it may play a bit better and skid on.” Despite these concerns, Buttler praised Australia's batting effort, stating, “However, all being said, whatever happens with the conditions, to chase down 350 is a fantastic effort.”