• Australia achieved the highest successful run chase in ICC ODI tournament history.
• Josh Inglis shined with an unbeaten 120 runs, leading Australia to victory.
• England's Ben Duckett scored a remarkable 165, setting a new Champions Trophy record.
• The match saw dramatic swings in momentum and showcased stellar batting performances from both teams.

In an electrifying start to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Australia triumphed over England in a blockbuster encounter held in Lahore, marking an impressive record chase. Australia successfully chased down a mammoth total of 356 runs, finishing at 356 for 5 in just 47.3 overs, clinching victory by five wickets. This chase not only secured Australia a crucial win but also established the highest successful run chase in the history of ICC one-day internationals, surpassing previous records held in the tournament. The match was highlighted by exceptional batting performances, notably from Josh Inglis, who played a pivotal role with a remarkable unbeaten score of 120 runs off 86 deliveries, including eight fours and six sixes.

Set to chase 352 after Ben Duckett anchored England with a record 165 runs, Australia faced early challenges, losing both Travis Head and Steve Smith early in the innings. However, Inglis countered the pressure alongside Alex Carey, who contributed 69 runs, forming a vital 146-run partnership. The pair displayed excellent coordination, navigating through England’s sharp bowling from Adil Rashid and Liam Livingstone. Their efforts allowed Australia to stabilize the innings and ultimately seize control.

Despite England’s solid batting performance, Duckett's individual innings, which included 17 fours and three sixes, remained the talk of the match. His score eclipsed the previous highest individual score in Champions Trophy history, superseding New Zealand’s Nathan Astle who previously held the record. Duckett's innings laid a strong foundation as he formed notable partnerships, notably a 158-run tandem with Joe Root, who provided a supportive 68 runs. England finished their innings at 351-8, a score that their bowlers could not defend, showcasing their struggles throughout the match.

The chase unfolded dramatically as England initially dominated the early exchanges, yet Australia demonstrated resilience as the game progressed. Inglis's performance was described as the innings of his life, with the wicket conditions – aided by dew – becoming increasingly favorable for batting during the second innings. Captain Steve Smith praised the team’s resolve, stating, "For a moment, it looked like they were probably going to get over 400, so we're pleased by that bowling effort." He continued to commend Inglis’s performance, noting the importance of believing they could chase down 350 runs.

As the match drew to a close, the tension mounted with 11 runs needed to win. Inglis's solid technique and power-hitting style saw him ultimately seal the victory with a massive six, underlining his emerging status as a key player for the Australian side. This defeat leaves England facing significant pressure in their upcoming group-stage matches against Afghanistan and South Africa, as they strive to secure a place in the semi-finals.

The balance of England's squad will be critically analyzed in the aftermath of this match, with questions raised about their strategies and player injuries hampering their performance. As captain Jos Buttler remarked, "You have to credit the opposition," indicating a recognition of Australia’s strengths. The gripping dynamics of this encounter not only set a precedent at the Champions Trophy but also intensified expectations for the ongoing tournament.

For more details, see the match reports from BBC, Al Jazeera, and Reuters.