Inglis Shines as AUS Seals Record Chase Against ENG in CT 2025

Inglis Shines as AUS Seals Record Chase Against ENG in CT 2025

Josh Inglis delivered a masterclass in Lahore, etching his name in history with a stunning maiden ODI century that powered AUS to a record-breaking chase against ENG in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The wicketkeeper-batter, born in ENG but now a crucial cog in AUS cricket, played a defining knock of 120* off just 86 balls, guiding his team to a remarkable win in their tournament opener.

For Inglis, the moment carried an extra layer of emotion. Having grown up in Leeds before emigrating to Western Australia as a teenager, he once dreamt of donning the ENG colors. But as he admitted post-match, those days are long gone. His unbeaten knock helped AUS chase down a daunting target of 356/5 the highest successful chase in an ICC tournament dismissing ENG’s earlier record-setting total of 351/8.

Coming to the crease with AUS at 122/3 in the 20th over, Inglis anchored the innings with precision, turning the tide in favor of his side. His heroics overshadowed Ben Duckett’s explosive 165 off 142 balls, which had earlier propelled ENG to their formidable total. Duckett’s innings broke the record for the highest individual score in Champions Trophy history, surpassing Nathan Astle’s 145* against USA in 2004.

Despite ENG’s strong batting display, AUS responded with determination. The chase, now etched in cricketing folklore, also marked AUS’ second-highest successful run chase in ODIs and the highest ever against ENG. Inglis, understandably, was modest about his achievement. Reflecting on his innings, he admitted it might be his best knock so far but needed time to process the magnitude of the moment.

“Under the circumstances, in an ICC event, you want to have an impact and help your team win a game. Maybe it’s my best innings so far I’ll reflect on it later,” he said after receiving the Player of the Match award. He also acknowledged the congratulatory messages from his UK-based relatives, appreciating their support despite his match-winning performance against ENG.

This thrilling match added another chapter to the storied rivalry between AUS and ENG. Not only did it showcase Inglis’ remarkable composure, but it also highlighted the resilience of the AUS batting lineup. Records tumbled in Lahore as the defending ODI world champions made a statement with their historic victory.

The records set in this high-octane clash were staggering. AUS’ successful chase of 356/5 now stands as the highest in an ICC white-ball tournament, surpassing Pakistan’s 345/4 against SL in the 2023 World Cup. It also became the highest-ever chase in the Champions Trophy, further solidifying AUS’ dominance on the big stage.

For ENG, despite Duckett’s heroics, it was a bitter pill to swallow. They had hoped their massive total would be enough, but AUS’ batting depth proved too strong. The match also saw Joe Root contribute a solid knock, forming a crucial 158-run partnership with Duckett before Adam Zampa provided a much-needed breakthrough for AUS.

The win puts AUS in a strong position in Group B, with their next challenge coming against SA. Both teams opened their campaigns with wins, making their upcoming clash in Rawalpindi a high-stakes encounter. A victory there would virtually guarantee a spot in the knockout stage. Meanwhile, ENG now faces a must-win situation against AFG in Lahore on February 26, needing a turnaround to keep their tournament hopes alive.

The Champions Trophy 2025 has already provided unforgettable moments, and this AUS vs ENG showdown will be remembered as one of the most thrilling contests in tournament history. With records shattered and new heroes emerging, cricket fans can expect more electrifying action as the tournament progresses.