Feb 23 (V7N) - Australia scripted history in the ICC Champions Trophy by completing the highest-ever successful run chase in tournament history, overhauling England’s challenging total of 351 with 15 balls to spare in an electrifying contest in Lahore on Saturday.

Wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis played a match-winning knock, remaining unbeaten on 120 off just 86 deliveries, steering Australia to a five-wicket triumph.

England’s batting effort was built around Ben Duckett’s sensational 165 off 143 balls, his career-best in ODIs, with Joe Root chipping in with 68 runs to help post a formidable total of 351 for 8.

However, under the lights, the batting conditions improved significantly, and Australia’s deep lineup made the steep target look manageable.

Australia found themselves in early trouble at 27 for 2 after the quick dismissals of Travis Head and Steve Smith. Matthew Short’s aggressive 63 off 66 balls and Marnus Labuschagne’s steady 47 provided much-needed stability before Inglis and Alex Carey shifted the momentum completely.

The pair put together a crucial 146-run stand for the fifth wicket, neutralizing England’s bowling attack. Carey contributed a composed 69 off 63 balls before being dismissed in the 42nd over, but by then, Australia required only 70 more runs with ample overs remaining. Glenn Maxwell applied the finishing touches with a blistering 32 off 15 balls, ensuring there were no late stumbles.

Australia had earlier won the toss and opted to bowl first.

Captain Steve Smith lauded his team’s ability to remain calm and execute their plans under pressure.

“The boys were exceptional. At one point, it seemed like England would get 400, but we knew 350 was chaseable. We backed our skills and managed the chase brilliantly,” Smith remarked post-match.

For England, Duckett’s sublime innings, studded with 17 fours and three sixes, gave them a commanding position, but they faltered in finishing strongly.

Root’s 68 and Jos Buttler’s quickfire 23 off 23 deliveries pushed the total past 350, but defending the score proved difficult due to dewy conditions. Jofra Archer and Mark Wood picked up a wicket each but proved expensive, while Adil Rashid (1 for 47) was the only bowler to maintain some control.

England skipper Buttler acknowledged the challenging conditions.

"Posting 350 is usually a winning total, but the dew played a big factor. Credit to Australia—they built that crucial partnership, and we couldn’t find a breakthrough. If we keep scoring 350, we won’t lose too many matches,” Buttler admitted after the game.

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