England’s opener Ben Duckett on Saturday became the first player in Champions Trophy history to score 150, achieving this feat in his team’s inaugural match of the 2025 edition against Australia.
Duckett achieved the milestone off only 132 balls, aiding England in surpassing 300 even as wickets tumbled from the other end.
The previous highest individual scorer in the tournament was Nathan Astle of New Zealand, who made 145* against the USA at the Oval in 2004. Duckett’s innings featured an impressive 17 boundaries and three sixes, propelling England to a colossal 352.
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When he was out to Marnus Labuschagne in the 48th over, Duckett had fulfilled his role of stabilizing England’s innings. He received due support from Joe Root, who scored 68, and partnered with Duckett to add 158 runs off 155 balls for the third wicket, securing a substantial total for England.
In Australia’s bowling lineup, pacer Ben Dwarshuis excelled with figures of 3-66, while Adam Zampa and Marnus Labuschagne each claimed two wickets, and Glenn Maxwell accounted for one.
Left-arm bowler Dwarshuis took two wickets in the opening ten overs, dismissing Phil Salt and Jamie Smith, while Alex Carey made two outstanding catches as a fielder.
As Duckett showcased his knack for finding boundaries, Root scored a patient 68 off 78 balls and seemed poised to achieve his first ODI century in nearly six years before he was dismissed lbw by Zampa, who would soon follow by taking Harry Brook’s wicket as Carey made another remarkable catch.
England captain Jos Buttler also fell quickly as Maxwell had him caught out for 23, but Duckett kept the runs flowing at the other end, surpassing 150.
Jofra Archer’s late contribution of 21 runs not out from 10 balls was instrumental in England achieving their highest total ever in the Champions Trophy. Australia is now hoping that dew arrives promptly to aid them in chasing 352 on a very flat pitch.
