Australia Show Their Tournament Pedigree Yet Again
Despite missing their star pace trio and failing contributions from experienced batters Steve Smith and Travis Head, Australia pulled off a sensational 352-run chase against England to secure a dramatic win in the Champions Trophy 2025. It was the highest-ever successful chase in ICC ODI history, and once again, Australia proved why they are a force to reckon with in world tournaments.
England Start Strong But Falter Under Pressure
England came out firing, putting up a massive 351/6 on the back of solid partnerships, especially from Ben Duckett and Joe Root. Duckett’s innings was described by Jos Buttler as “brilliant,” and the skipper was satisfied with their total: “350 you would take at the start of the game.” However, despite dominating the first half, the dew in the second innings and a late bowling meltdown undid their efforts.
Australia’s Grit and Guts Under Pressure
Australia’s innings had a nightmare start, losing Smith and Head inside the first five overs. But the middle order stood tall. Short and Marnus Labuschagne steadied the ship with a solid 100-run partnership before both fell trying to accelerate. From 122/4, the Aussies looked on shaky ground—until Alex Carey and Josh Inglis turned the tide.
The duo stitched together a stunning 146-run partnership for the fifth wicket. Inglis, in particular, was in supreme form, adapting to the conditions, rotating strike smartly, and unleashing big hits when needed. He notched up his maiden ODI century and was deservedly awarded the Player of the Match.
Josh Inglis – The Game Changer
Inglis’ unbeaten knock came under pressure and in testing conditions. “I tried not to look at the scoreboard too much. We knew we had Maxi still in the sheds and just kept chipping away,” he said. His knock came at a strike rate of over 130, as he made full use of the wet outfield and skiddy ball under lights.
Carey played the perfect foil, rotating strike and ensuring the scoreboard kept ticking. And when it was time for the final push, Glenn Maxwell came in and finished things off in his signature style—flamboyant and clinical.
Record-Breaking Stats from the Clash
- 352 – Highest successful chase in ICC ODI events
- Highest total chased in Champions Trophy history
- Second highest ODI chase by Australia ever
- Highest chase against England in ODI cricket
- Second highest chase on Pakistani soil
Skippers Speak Post-Match
Steve Smith, Australia’s captain, praised the effort: “Regardless of who’s in or out, we trust our squad. Everyone contributed. The chase was perfectly planned and well-executed.”
Jos Buttler took the loss on the chin: “We tried our best, but credit to Australia. They found ways to keep the scoreboard ticking. Our bowlers did their best, but dew and small errors cost us.”
Looking Ahead
This win gives Australia vital momentum in Group B. Meanwhile, England will need to bounce back quickly in their next game. With the tournament heating up, all eyes now turn to the marquee clash between India and Pakistan scheduled for tomorrow in Dubai.
Category: Cricket, Champions Trophy 2025, Match Highlights
Tags: Australia vs England, Champions Trophy 2025, Josh Inglis, Alex Carey, ODI record chase, dew factor cricket, Steve Smith, Jos Buttler, England collapse, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell
