Australia’s chase of 352 against England in their opening Champions Trophy 2025 clash has reached a crucial juncture after Alex Carey fell for 69 off 63 balls. Brydon Carse delivered a game-changing moment, forcing Carey into a mistimed shot to mid-off, where Jos Buttler made no mistake in completing the catch. With 70 runs required off 48 balls, Glenn Maxwell has joined a well-set Josh Inglis at the crease, keeping Australia’s hopes alive.
Earlier in the innings, Australia found themselves in trouble after losing early wickets but managed to recover with a solid partnership between Carey and Inglis. Despite losing five wickets, they remain in contention with Maxwell’s aggressive batting yet to unfold.
England set a daunting target of 351/8, thanks to a sensational 165 from Ben Duckett, who became the first batter in Champions Trophy history to score 150+ in an innings. Duckett, batting at a strike rate of 115.38, smashed three sixes and 17 fours, stitching a crucial 158-run stand with Joe Root (68 off 78).
Jofra Archer’s late cameo (21 off 10) provided the finishing touch as England crossed the 350-run mark for the first time in the tournament’s history. For Australia, Ben Dwarshuis was the pick of the bowlers, taking three wickets, while Adam Zampa and Marnus Labuschagne picked up two each.
With just four overs remaining, Australia needs a strong finish, and much will depend on Inglis, who is batting fluently, and Maxwell, who has the ability to turn the game on its head. England, on the other hand, will rely on their death bowling, with Carse’s final overs likely to be decisive in sealing the match.