In the ongoing Champions Trophy match between Australia and England at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, England’s Ben Duckett etched his name in history by scoring the highest individual score in Champions Trophy history.
Duckett surpassed former New Zealand batter Nathan Astle’s record of 145* against the USA in 2004. Also he became first player to score 150 in Champions Trophy.
Australia entered the tournament with several key players missing due to injuries and personal reasons. Stars like Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitch Marsh were ruled out, forcing Steve Smith to lead a relatively inexperienced squad.
Meanwhile, England, who have never won a Champions Trophy, are determined to make a strong start as they aim for their first title. Facing a weakened Australian team, they have capitalized on the opportunity to post a strong total.
Ben Duckett dominates Australian bowlers
England finished their innings at 351/8 after 50 overs, with Ben Duckett leading the charge with a brilliant knock. He scored 165 runs off 147 balls, smashing 17 fours and 3 sixes, before getting dismissed.
Jofra Archer added quick runs at the end, scoring 21 off 10 balls, while Joe Root earlier contributed with a solid 68-run innings.
Australia’s bowlers kept chipping away with wickets despite England’s strong batting. Ben Dwarshius took 3 wickets, Adam Zampa and Marnus Labuschagne picked 2 each, and Glenn Maxwell got 1 wicket.