Inglis’ century powers Australia to victory over England in Champions Trophy

KATHMANDU: Australia made a strong start to the ICC Champions Trophy with a commanding five-wicket victory over England on Saturday in Lahore. This marks Australia’s first win in the tournament since their 2009 triumph.

Chasing a daunting 352-run target, Australia reached 353/5 in 47.3 overs, thanks to an unbeaten century by Josh Inglis.

Inglis scored a match-winning 120* off 86 balls, hitting eight fours and six sixes. He reached his maiden ODI century in just 77 balls.

Australia had a shaky start, losing two wickets for just 27 runs. However, a 95-run stand between Matthew Short (63 off 66) and Marnus Labuschagne (47 off 45) steadied the innings. Captain Steve Smith managed only five runs before falling cheaply.

A decisive 146-run partnership between Inglis and Alex Carey (69 off 63) put Australia in control. Glenn Maxwell’s quickfire 32* off 15 balls sealed the victory.

For England, Adil Rashid, Mark Wood, Brydon Carse, Liam Livingstone, and Jofra Archer each took one wicket.

Duckett’s Record-Breaking Knock in Vain

Earlier, England posted a formidable 351/8 in their 50 overs after being put in to bat. Opener Ben Duckett led the charge with a stunning unbeaten 165 off 143 balls, hitting 17 fours and three sixes. His knock broke the previous Champions Trophy record of 145* by New Zealand’s Nathan Astle in 2004.

Joe Root contributed a solid 68 off 78 balls, while captain Jos Buttler (23), Jamie Smith (15), Liam Livingstone (14), and Jofra Archer (21*) added valuable runs.

Australia’s bowlers shared the wickets, with Ben Dwarshuis taking 3, while Labuschagne and Adam Zampa grabbed two each. Glenn Maxwell chipped in with one wicket.

Tournament Standings and Upcoming Matches

With this win, Australia moves to second place in Group B, while England remains without points. South Africa currently tops the group on net run rate.

The next marquee clash will see India face Pakistan in the UAE on Monday.

The Champions Trophy features the top eight teams from the last ODI World Cup, divided into two groups. Group A includes Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and New Zealand, while Group B consists of Australia, Afghanistan, England, and South Africa.

The top two teams from each group will advance to the semifinals, with the final set for March 9.