ENG vs AUS Review: Australia’s record-breaking chase stuns England
In a cricketing-rivals encounter at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium on February 22, Australia achieved a record-breaking five-wicket victory over England in the ICC Champions Trophy. England, batting first, posted a formidable total of 351 for eight, propelled by Ben Duckett’s historic 165-run innings. However, Australia’s response was equally formidable, with Josh Inglis’s unbeaten 120 guiding them to a successful chase with 15 balls to spare.
England’s innings was anchored by Duckett, whose 165 off 143 balls set a new benchmark for the highest individual score in Champions Trophy history. His partnership of 158 runs with Joe Root, who contributed 68, laid a solid foundation. Despite early setbacks, including the loss of Phil Salt to a spectacular catch by Alex Carey, England managed to compile the highest team total ever recorded in the tournament.
Australia’s chase began shakily, losing key wickets of Travis Head and stand-in captain Steven Smith during the powerplay. However, a stabilizing 95-run partnership between Matthew Short and Marnus Labuschagne brought them back into contention. The turning point was the 146-run stand between Inglis and Carey, which shifted momentum decisively in Australia’s favor. Inglis’s aggressive 120 not out off 86 balls, complemented by Carey’s 69, ensured Australia reached the target comfortably.
England’s bowlers struggled to contain Australia’s batsmen, particularly under the challenging dew-laden conditions during the night. Despite early breakthroughs by Jofra Archer and Mark Wood, the lack of control in the latter stages allowed Australia to accelerate. The absence of frontline Australian bowlers like Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc did not deter their attack, as the replacements managed to apply pressure and take crucial wickets at key moments.
This match not only showcased individual brilliance but also highlighted the depth and resilience of both teams. England’s record-setting total and Duckett’s monumental innings were overshadowed by Australia’s historic chase, marking the highest successful run chase in ICC event history. As the tournament progresses, both teams will reflect on this high-scoring contest, with England aiming to tighten their bowling strategies and Australia looking to maintain their winning momentum.
| Rank | Team | Target | Score | Opponent | Tournament | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Australia | 352 | 356/5 | England | Champions Trophy | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore |
| 2 | Pakistan | 345 | 349/4 | Sri Lanka | Cricket World Cup | Hyderabad |
| 3 | Ireland | 328 | 329/7 | England | Cricket World Cup | Bengaluru |
| 4 | Bangladesh | 322 | 322/3 | West Indies | Cricket World Cup | Taunton |
| 5 | Bangladesh | 319 | 322/4 | Scotland | Cricket World Cup | Nelson |
Top Performers of the match
Ben Duckett (165 off 143)
Despite being on the losing side, Duckett’s knock will be remembered for a long time. With the rest of his side’s batters struggling to get going, Duckett was the only one who truly looked comfortable at all times. His explosive knock, the highest score by any batter in the Champions Trophy until now, comprised 17 fours and three sixes.
Ben Dwarshuis (3/66 in 10 overs)
The left-arm seamer bowled quite well to concede only 66 in his allotted 10-over quota. He got rid of Salt and Smith within his first spell itself. A slower delivery in his final over brought the end of Liam Livingstone.
What’s next for the two sides?
Australia and England will take on South Africa and Afghanistan in Rawalpindi and Lahore on February 25 and February 26, respectively. The two games are scheduled to get underway on 2:30 pm (IST).
