Australia made the record of the highest successful chase in ICC tournament history, chasing down England’s 351 with 15 balls to spare in a thrilling Champions Trophy encounter in Lahore on Saturday, reports UNB.
Wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis starred with an unbeaten 120 off 86 balls, leading the chase as Australia secured a five-wicket win.
England’s innings revolved around Ben Duckett’s brilliant 165 off 143 balls, his highest ODI score, while Joe Root contributed 68 to help England post a formidable 351 for 8.
However, on a surface that became easier for batting under the lights, Australia’s deep batting lineup made light work of the target.
After losing Travis Head and Steve Smith early, Australia were under pressure at 27 for 2. Matthew Short’s attacking 63 off 66 balls and Marnus Labuschagne’s 47 provided stability, but it was the partnership between Inglis and Alex Carey that turned the game around.
The duo added 146 runs for the fifth wicket, neutralizing England’s bowling attack. Carey played his part with a solid 69 off 63 balls before falling in the 42nd over, but by then, Australia needed just 70 more runs with plenty of time left. Glenn Maxwell ensured there were no late hiccups, smashing 32 off 15 balls to seal the win.
Captain Steve Smith praised his team’s ability to remain composed in the chase.
“The guys were outstanding. We thought 350 was chaseable. Looked like they’d get 400 at one stage, but we trusted each other’s skills and controlled the back end,” Smith said after the match.
England’s innings was dominated by Duckett, who played one of the best knocks of his career. His 17 fours and three sixes powered England to a strong position, but they couldn’t finish as strongly as they had hoped.
Root added 68, and Jos Buttler’s 23-ball 23 pushed the total past 350, but England’s bowlers struggled to defend in dewy conditions. Jofra Archer and Mark Wood took a wicket each but proved expensive, while Adil Rashid (1 for 47) was the only bowler to maintain control.
England captain Buttler admitted the conditions played a role.
“350 is a pretty good score, but it was wet, and the dew was a worry. Credit to Australia, we couldn’t break that partnership. If we keep putting 350 on the board, we won’t come second too often,” Buttler said after the match.
Bd-Pratidin English/ AM
