A Historic Knock in Lahore
Ben Duckett etched his name into the history books with a record-breaking knock in the Champions Trophy 2025, scoring an astounding 165 runs, the highest individual score in the tournament’s history. His magnificent innings propelled England to a commanding total of 351/8 against Australia at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. Duckett’s innings, supported by Joe Root’s steady contribution, highlighted England’s improved batting strategy in the middle overs, a crucial phase they had struggled with in the lead-up to the tournament in India.
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England’s Confident Start Despite Early Setbacks
England began their innings with aggressive intent, as opener Phil Salt took only four deliveries to get his eye in before launching a powerful drive through mid-off for four, followed by an authoritative straight six. However, Australia’s left-arm pacers struck back swiftly. Spencer Johnson was taken for early runs, but Ben Dwarshuis made an impact in his very first over, dismissing Salt. The wicket was largely credited to Alex Carey’s brilliant fielding at mid-on. Salt flicked a full delivery in the air, and Carey made a sensational diving catch to his right, giving Australia an early breakthrough.
Jamie Smith’s Brief but Promising Cameo
Jamie Smith, England’s new No.3, showed glimpses of promise but failed to convert his start into a big score. He looked in fine touch, playing some elegant strokes, but lasted only 13 balls before falling for 15. His dismissal mirrored Salt’s, as he also found Alex Carey at mid-on while trying to be aggressive against Dwarshuis. With two quick wickets lost, England found themselves in a tricky situation, needing stability in the middle order.
Root and Duckett Take Control
Joe Root and Ben Duckett then took charge of the innings, settling in on a pitch that favored batting. The duo showcased patience and skill, particularly against the spin duo of Glenn Maxwell and Adam Zampa. Root, who had been struggling for big scores against Australia in ODIs, finally broke his poor run with his first fifty-plus score in 11 innings. Duckett, meanwhile, adopted a more measured approach, curbing his natural instinct for aggression and playing with controlled precision.
A Century Partnership to Set the Foundation
As Root and Duckett’s partnership flourished, England steadily built their innings. The pair added 158 runs for the third wicket, carefully managing the middle overs. Root’s knock of 68 off 78 balls was crucial in setting the stage for England’s big total. However, just when he looked set for a century, Zampa dismissed him leg-before in the 31st over. Root’s departure was a setback, but Duckett remained steadfast at the crease, determined to make the most of his form.
Spin Strikes Again: Brook and Livingstone Fail to Fire
Following Root’s dismissal, England hoped for some late-order fireworks from Harry Brook and Liam Livingstone. However, both batters failed to capitalize on their starts, falling to Australia’s spinners. Brook and Livingstone perished after brief stays, leaving England reliant on Duckett to anchor the innings deep into the final overs.
Duckett’s Record-Breaking Feat
With wickets falling around him, Duckett shifted gears and started playing with more aggression. As he accelerated, he etched his name into the Champions Trophy record books, surpassing the highest individual score in the tournament’s history. His innings was a masterclass in pacing an ODI knock, blending caution with aggression seamlessly. He eventually fell in the 48th over, trapped LBW by Marnus Labuschagne, but not before achieving an unforgettable milestone.
England Cross 350 Despite Late Wickets
Even after Duckett’s dismissal, England managed to push past the 350-run mark. Labuschagne picked another wicket in the final over but conceded 15 runs, allowing England to finish on a commanding total of 351/8. Their improved middle-overs approach and Duckett’s brilliance ensured they set a daunting target for Australia.
A Knock for the Ages
Ben Duckett’s record-breaking 165 was the defining moment of the match, setting up England for a strong performance against their arch-rivals. His innings will be remembered as one of the greatest in Champions Trophy history, a testament to his ability to balance aggression and patience. England’s total of 351/8 put them in a formidable position, leaving Australia with a challenging chase under the lights at Gaddafi Stadium.
Highest totals in Champions Trophy
351/8 Eng vs Aus Lahore 2025
347/4 NZ vs USA The Oval 2004
338/4 Pak vs Ind The Oval 2017
331/7 Ind vs SA Cardiff 2013
323/8 Eng vs SA Centurion 2009