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Ben Duckett made history in Lahore, smashing the highest individual score in ICC Champions Trophy history to propel England towards a commanding finish against Australia. His third ODI century, packed with 11 boundaries and a towering six, came at a crucial time after early wickets tumbled in this high-stakes Group B encounter.
England’s Flying Start Despite Early Jolts
The match began with Australia winning the toss and opting to bowl first. Left-arm pacer Ben Dwarshius struck early, removing Phil Salt in just the second over with a sharp catch by Alex Carey. Jamie Smith followed soon after, giving Dwarshius his second wicket as Australia tightened their grip in the powerplay.
WATCH: Duckett’s blazing century vs Australia | Champions Trophy 2025
However, England found stability in the experienced hands of Joe Root. The former skipper crafted a well-paced 68 off 78 balls, forging a crucial 158-run partnership with Duckett. Just as Root looked set for his first ODI century in nearly six years, Adam Zampa turned the game around.
Zampa Strikes, But Duckett Dominates
Zampa’s leg-spin magic trapped Root lbw, handing Australia a much-needed breakthrough. He struck again soon after, dismissing Harry Brook, while Glenn Maxwell claimed the prized wicket of Jos Buttler with Nathan Ellis taking a well-judged catch in the deep. England suddenly found themselves five down, but Duckett remained unshaken, leading the charge.
Australia’s Injury Woes and England’s Title Aspirations
Australia entered the tournament with significant injury setbacks, missing key pacers Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc, along with all-rounder Mitchell Marsh. Steve Smith, who last led the team in the 2017 edition, stepped in as captain. The team also struggled in the lead-up, suffering a 2-0 ODI series loss to Sri Lanka. Shockingly, Australia’s last Champions Trophy victory came way back in 2009 when they lifted the title.
England, too, faced challenges, enduring a 3-0 series whitewash against India earlier this month. But with Duckett in record-breaking form and the squad eager to claim their maiden Champions Trophy title, they’re on track for a deep tournament run.
Can England sustain their momentum and go all the way? Stay tuned for more thrilling action from the Champions Trophy 2025!
