Inglis’ Joint-Fastest Ton in Champions Trophy History Powers Australia to Record Chase of 352 Against England
Lahore [Pakistan], February 23: Australian wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis expressed sheer delight after his match-winning century against England in their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 opener, stating that he was “over the moon” with the performance and that it has given him a personal boost.
Inglis’ remarkable innings of 120* off 86 balls—featuring eight fours and six sixes—not only helped Australia chase down 352 but also etched his name in the record books. His 77-ball century equaled Virender Sehwag’s record for the fastest century in Champions Trophy history.
“Over the Moon,” Says Inglis
Speaking after the match, Inglis said, “Over the moon, great win. We knew it was going to be tough coming up against England, it always is. Chasing 350, a lot of things have to go right. Really pumped on a personal level. The guys did a fantastic job, and it was a great performance overall.”
On his crucial partnership with Alex Carey (69 off 63 balls), he added, “He (Carey) doesn’t say much when batting—just a few words here and there. I was trying not to look at the scoreboard too much. We were going so well that we just needed to keep chipping away.”
Inglis also credited Glenn Maxwell for finishing the match in style, saying, “With Maxi still in the sheds, there was always a chance. Their part-time options are handy, but you cannot respect their bowling too much. I tried to be proactive.”
Match Recap: Australia’s Historic Chase
Opting to bowl first, Australia reduced England to 43/2 early on. However, a 158-run partnership between Ben Duckett (165 off 143 balls) and Joe Root (68 off 78 balls) resurrected the innings. Duckett continued his onslaught, guiding England to 351/8—setting a new record for the highest total in Champions Trophy history.
Ben Dwarshuis (3/66) was Australia’s best bowler, while Adam Zampa (2/64) and Matthew Short (2/41) provided crucial breakthroughs.
Australia’s chase began on a shaky note, losing Travis Head and Steve Smith cheaply. However, a steady 95-run stand between Matt Short (63) and Marnus Labuschagne (47) stabilized the innings before Adil Rashid triggered another collapse at 136/4.
Inglis and Carey’s 146-run partnership turned the game around before Carey departed. Inglis, alongside Maxwell (32* off 15), finished the match in stunning fashion, reaching the target with 15 balls to spare—completing the highest-ever run chase in ICC ODI event history.
This victory marks a record-breaking start for Australia in the Champions Trophy 2025, setting the tone for an exciting campaign ahead.