In a landmark performance during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Australian wicketkeeper-batsman Josh Inglis delivered an unbeaten 120 off 86 balls, propelling Australia to a record-breaking five-wicket victory over England at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. This triumph marked Australia’s highest successful chase in ICC tournament history, as they surpassed England’s formidable total of 351 for 8 with 15 balls to spare.
England's Formidable Total
Electing to bat first, England posted a formidable 351 for 8, largely due to opener Ben Duckett’s monumental 165 off 143 balls—the highest individual score in Champions Trophy history. Duckett’s innings, bolstered by Joe Root’s 68, set a challenging target for Australia. Despite this, Australia’s bowlers managed to contain England’s middle and lower order, preventing an even larger total. Notably, Alex Carey contributed significantly in the field with two exceptional catches, including a diving effort to dismiss Phil Salt early in the innings.
Josh Inglis Early Life and Career
Born on March 4, 1995, in Leeds, England, Joshua Patrick Inglis relocated to Australia at the age of 14. He honed his cricketing skills in his new homeland, eventually representing Western Australia and the Perth Scorchers in domestic competitions. Inglis’s consistent performances earned him a spot in the Australian national team, where he has showcased his prowess as a wicketkeeper-batsman across all three formats.
Australia's Record-Breaking Chase
Facing a daunting target, Australia overcame early setbacks with a masterful batting display. Josh Inglis emerged as the linchpin, crafting an unbeaten 120 off 86 balls—his maiden ODI century. Inglis found valuable support from Alex Carey, who scored 69, and Matthew Short, who added 63. A pivotal 146-run partnership between Inglis and Carey steadied the innings, while Glenn Maxwell’s quickfire 32 not out off 15 balls sealed the victory with 15 balls to spare. This successful chase not only marked Australia’s highest in ICC tournament history but also underscored their batting depth and resilience.
Post-Match Reflections
Expressing his elation, Inglis stated, “I’m over the moon to have contributed to such a great win against England. Chasing down a record total is a testament to our team’s resilience and determination.” Stand-in captain Steve Smith lauded the collective effort, highlighting the bowlers’ role in restricting England’s formidable lineup and the batsmen’s composure under pressure.
