Ben Duckett made history on February 22, 2025, during the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy match against Australia at the Gaddafi Stadium, as he scored 165 runs, setting the record for the highest individual score in Champions Trophy history. This remarkable feat marked his third ODI century and elevated Duckett to legendary status among cricketers.
Australia, having won the toss, opted to bowl first, hoping to exert early pressure on the English batsmen. The plan initially worked, as England struggled to 43 for 2 within the powerplay, with wickets of Phil Salt and Jamie Smith falling rapidly to Australian bowler Ben Dwarshuis. The situation looked dire for the English side. But Duckett, alongside the experienced Joe Root, concocted a brilliant response.
The duo stabilized the innings by forging a 158-run partnership, demonstrating tremendous skill against the Australian bowling lineup. Duckett’s century came at the 32nd over, where he showcased aggressive stroke play, blasting back-to-back boundaries to bring up the hundred. "I took my helmet off and celebrated; it felt exhilarating to get to this milestone," Duckett expressed after the match.
His innings were characterized by precision and boldness, as he unleashed 17 fours and 3 sixes during his masterful 142-ball stay at the crease. Duckett’s aggressive batting not only provided England with the necessary momentum but also made him the first English player to score a century on their Champions Trophy debut.
During the innings, the previous record for the highest individual score was held by New Zealand's Nathan Astle, who achieved 145 runs against the USA in 2004. Duckett surpassed this by 20 runs, and his dominance on the field highlighted the lack of Australia’s first-choice pacers such as Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc due to injuries. This absence allowed Duckett to take control and punish the Australian bowlers, especially Adam Zampa and Glenn Maxwell, finishing with England's total at 351 for 8.
Before Duckett's remarkable innings, England was teetering after losing early wickets. Following the departure of Root for 68 runs, Duckett continued to power the innings alongside Jos Buttler, who contributed 23 runs. England's fourth and fifth bowling partnerships added to the piling pressure on Australia.
Duckett’s momentous knock was halted by Marnus Labuschagne, who claimed the wicket just before the 50th over, ending Duckett's innings and leaving the crowd and teammates applauding. "I wanted to give us the best chance to put runs on the board for the team," he said, reflecting on his efforts. "It’s always pleasing to contribute to the victory with runs."
The impact of this innings was enormous not only for Duckett but also for the English side. His exceptional performance set the team up to defend their total effectively, and they went on to win the match convincingly. With Duckett’s score, England also made history as they attained the highest team total ever recorded in the Champions Trophy, outdoing the previous record of 347 runs set by New Zealand.
This innings not only leads Duckett to the forefront of cricket records but also establishes him as one of England’s brightest talents. With this performance, he outpaced past greats like Sourav Ganguly and Sachin Tendulkar, who previously ranked among the highest scorers, both with 141 runs.
Duckett's emergence as a major player for England and his historic innings have sparked excitement and anticipation as the tournament progresses. Fans and analysts alike are now watching closely to see how this young batter will continue to shape England's fortunes.
With England winning the match and Duckett's record-breaking performance, the stage is set for thrilling encounters ahead. The cricket world's attention now shifts to how both Duckett and the English team will fare as the tournament advances.