A historic match unfolded on February 22, 2025, at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, where Australia achieved the highest successful run chase in ICC tournament history, defeating England by five wickets.
Chasing England's imposing target of 352, Australia found themselves teetering early on, losing four wickets and putting immense pressure on their batting lineup. Yet, the resilient effort led by Josh Inglis, who scored a magnificent 120 not out off just 86 balls, propelled Australia to victory.
Formerly unbeaten, Inglis' remarkable performance included eight fours and six sixes, which proved instrumental as the Australians not only chased down the mighty total but did so with 15 balls to spare, making this win particularly memorable.
Earlier, England showcased their batting prowess with Ben Duckett leading from the front. Duckett's extraordinary innings of 165 runs off 143 balls was the highlight as he helped propel England to their highest total of 351 runs, marked by 17 boundaries and three sixes. This innings set the record for the highest individual score in Champions Trophy history.
Duckett's century was complemented by Joe Root, who added 68 runs to solidify England's innings. Their partnership, tallying 158 runs, allowed England to recover after early setbacks, as they were reduced to 43 for 2. With Duckett remaining resilient, England seemed poised to defend their massive score.
Australia's response began shakily, with key players like Travis Head and Steve Smith falling early under pressure from England's fast bowlers, Jofra Archer and Mark Wood. Australia was at risk of faltering. But, partnerships formed by Matthew Short, who contributed 63 runs, and Marnus Labuschagne with 47 runs steadied the innings.
Even as Ben Dwarshuis laid claim to three wickets for 66 runs, providing Australia with brief moments of success. The real turning point came with the partnership between Inglis and fellow batsman Alex Carey, where the duo shared 146 runs for the fifth wicket. Carey’s 69 runs were equally significant, sustaining the chase and setting the rhythm as Australia advanced toward the target.
The significance of Australia’s run chase cannot be overstated; it not only marked their highest successful chase at any ICC event but also eclipsed the previous record held by Sri Lanka, which stood at 322 runs against India back in 2017.
Reflecting on this monumental match, Inglis said, "We never lost hope after our initial struggles. It was about staying positive and focusing on the task at hand." His contributions were pivotal, demonstrating why he has quickly become a key player for Australia.
England, on the other hand, would lament their performance, particularly their bowling attack, which struggled to contain Australia’s batting aggression. Jofra Archer, clearly affected by injury, could not deliver his best performance, conceding 82 runs for just one wicket.
This victory marks Australia’s first triumph at the Champions Trophy since their win against New Zealand back in 2009, and it sets the tone for their campaign after enduring significant struggles worldwide.
With this impressive opening win against England, Australia is now positioned favorably for their next matches, invigorated and rallying behind their newfound success. Meanwhile, England not only suffered their fourth consecutive ODI loss but also face pressure as they prepare for their upcoming matches against Afghanistan and South Africa.
The next chapter of the ICC Champions Trophy is just beginning, and with the circumstances set by this historic match, one can expect thrilling cricket as the tournament progresses.