Josh Inglis' Maiden ODI Century Energizes Australia's Epic Champions Trophy Victory Over England
Australia kicked off their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign with a bang, achieving a jaw-dropping five-wicket victory over England at Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium. This match wasn’t just a win; it was a statement. Australia successfully pursued a towering 351-run target set by England, marking it as the highest-ever chase in the history of the tournament. The hero of the day was undoubtedly Josh Inglis, who played a phenomenal innings with his maiden ODI century, remaining unbeaten on 120.
England's Mighty Start
England, captained by Jos Buttler, seemed to be in command early on, riding on the back of an exceptional performance from Ben Duckett, who smashed a career-best 165. Duckett put on a display of classical and powerful shots, anchored by Joe Root's reliable 68. It looked as though England was headed towards an imposing 400+ score, but eventually settled for 351, which at the time seemed more than adequate.
The pitch seemed to favor the batsmen, but nobody anticipated Australia’s batting line-up to perform with such fearless aggression. Despite early alarms suggesting that England's powerful top-order could steamroll through, Australia's bowlers contained the flow in the final overs.
Australia's Historic Chase
Steve Smith's squad, despite missing key players like Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood due to injuries, displayed remarkable resilience. With such significant absences, the victory was nothing short of extraordinary. England’s pace trio of Jofra Archer, Mark Wood, and Brydon Carse, known for their fiery spells, were left searching for answers against Australia’s relentless batsmen.
Alex Carey played a crucial role with a vital knock of 69, setting the stage for Inglis to shine. As Alex Carey and Glenn Maxwell joined forces with Inglis, the momentum swung heavily in Australia’s favor. Maxwell's quickfire 31* at the end steadied the ship, but it was Inglis who stole the spotlight.
Jofra Archer, who could have turned the tide, stumbled with a missed catch off Steve Smith, a moment that many believe swung the match entirely.
This victory not only boosts Australia's morale but also sends a clear message to competitors. England, still reeling from their recent 3-0 series loss to India, must rethink their strategy moving forward in the tournament. Australia's ability to chase such a daunting total, especially given the line-up changes and injuries, amplifies their stature as defending World Cup champions.
As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Australia and how they leverage this electrifying start. For now, though, it's clear: Australia's defiance and Josh Inglis's heroics have set the bar stunningly high.