Synopsis
Ben Duckett's stunning 165, the highest individual score in Champions Trophy history, helped England secure a massive 351/8 against Australia in Lahore. His record-breaking innings included 17 boundaries and 3 sixes, leading England to a remarkable total. Joe Root also contributed with 68 runs, while Ben Dwarshuis was Australia's standout bowler with 3 wickets.Key Takeaways
- Ben Duckett scored a record-breaking 165.
- England posted 351/8 against Australia.
- Joe Root contributed with 68 runs.
- Ben Dwarshuis took 3 wickets for Australia.
- Duckett's score was the first 150 in Champions Trophy history.
Lahore, Feb 22 (NationPress) Opener Ben Duckett delivered an extraordinary performance, scoring 165 – now the highest individual score in Champions Trophy history – as England amassed a formidable 351/8 against Australia during their Group B clash in the 2025 Champions Trophy at Gaddafi Stadium on Saturday.
Opting to bat first, Duckett unleashed his batting prowess, achieving a career-best 165 off 142 deliveries, surpassing the previous record held by legendary New Zealand player Nathan Astle. His innings featured an impressive 17 boundaries and three sixes, marking the first time a batter has crossed the 150 mark in the tournament's history.
Duckett was eventually dismissed by Marnus Labuschagne in the 48th over, having played a pivotal role in stabilizing England's innings. He received solid backing from Joe Root, who contributed 68 runs, and the duo shared a partnership of 158 runs off 155 balls for the third wicket, ensuring a substantial total for England.
For Australia, bowler Ben Dwarshuis emerged as the standout performer with figures of 3-66, while Adam Zampa and Marnus Labuschagne each took two wickets. Glenn Maxwell claimed one wicket, and Dwarshuis made early inroads by dismissing Phil Salt and Jamie Smith within the first ten overs, with Alex Carey taking two remarkable catches.
While Duckett showcased his boundary-hitting skills, Root played a measured innings of 68 off 78 deliveries and seemed poised to secure his first ODI century in nearly six years until he was trapped lbw by Zampa, who later swiftly dismissed Harry Brook with Carey taking another spectacular catch.
England captain Jos Buttler also fell short, as Maxwell had him caught out for 23. Nonetheless, Duckett continued to keep the scoreboard moving, surpassing 150. A late cameo from Jofra Archer, who scored 21 not out off 10 balls, was instrumental in England achieving their highest total ever in the Champions Trophy. Australia will be hoping for dew to assist them in their chase of 352 on a very favorable pitch.
Brief Scores: England 351/8 in 50 overs (Ben Duckett 165, Joe Root 68; Ben Dwarshuis 3-66, Marnus Labuschagne 2-41) against Australia
