• Ben Duckett's dominant century against Australia in the Champions Trophy 2025 has set England up for a strong total.

  • Duckett completed his ton facing just 95 deliveries smashing 12 fours and a six.

AUS vs ENG: Fans go gaga over Ben Duckett’s counter-attacking century against Australia in Champions Trophy 2025
Fans go gaga over Ben Duckett’s counterattacking century against Australia in Champions Trophy 2025 (Image source: X)

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 clash between England and Australia ignited with fireworks as Ben Duckett’s scintillating century stole the spotlight at a packed Gaddafi Stadium.

Opting to field first, Australia’s decision initially seemed shrewd when Ben Dwarshuis struck twice in the powerplay, reducing England to 43/2 inside six overs. But what followed was a breathtaking counterattack by Duckett, whose unbeaten 109 (104 balls) propelled England to 220/4 in just 34.2 overs, leaving fans in raptures and Australia scrambling for answers.

A century forged in fire: Ben Duckett’s unconventional brilliance

Duckett’s innings was a masterclass in controlled aggression. Arriving at the crease after Phil Salt’s early dismissal, the left-hander weathered the storm alongside Joe Root, blending innovation with audacity. His century, reached in 95 balls, was punctuated by a jaw-dropping moment in the 32nd over: Facing Spencer Johnson’s short ball, Duckett swiveled onto the back foot, slammed it straight past the bowler, and sprinted for four—celebrating his ton with a roar as the crowd erupted. The shot encapsulated his innings: fearless, inventive, and impossible to contain.

Duckett’s knock featured 12 boundaries and a six, but it was his strike rotation that dazzled. He targeted gaps with surgical precision, turning singles into doubles and punishing loose deliveries. Even as partners fell around him, Duckett remained unflappable, adapting seamlessly to Australia’s bowling shifts.

Also WATCH: Alex Carey grabs a flying catch to dismiss Phil Salt in Champions Trophy 2025

Joe Root and Duckett’s rebuilding process

At 43/2, England’s hopes hinged on a partnership. Enter Root, whose 68 (78 balls) provided the perfect foil to Duckett’s flair. The duo added 158 runs in 144 balls, dismantling Australia’s attack with contrasting styles. Root anchored, nudging ones and twos, while Duckett attacked. Their 50-run stand came in just 48 balls, accelerating to 150 by the 29th over.

Root’s dismissal, trapped lbw by Adam Zampa via umpire’s call, momentarily slowed England, but Duckett’s resolve never wavered. By the second drinks break at 210/4, he had already crossed 100, and is tasked to finish the onslaught with Jos Buttler.

Australia’s bowling conundrum of costly leaks

Australia’s bowlers struggled for consistency. Dwarshuis (2/39) struck early, but Spencer Johnson’s 7 overs leaked 54 runs, including Duckett’s century-sealing boundary. Zampa (2/41) proved expensive but crucial, breaking the Root-Duckett stand and removing Harry Brook. Nathan Ellis (4.57 economy) was tidy, yet Glenn Maxwell and part-timer Matthew Short couldn’t stem the flow.

With more than 15 overs remaining and Duckett alongside Jos Buttler, England eyes a mammoth total. The current run rate of 6.40 hints at a 350+ score if the duo accelerates. Liam Livingstone, Brydon Carse, and Jofra Archer wait in the wings, capable of late fireworks.

Here’s how fans reacted:

Also WATCH: India’s national anthem played instead of Australia’s during the Champions Trophy 2025 match in Lahore

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About the Author:
Akash Thapa is a dedicated cricket journalist with three years of experience in the media industry. A BA (JMC) graduate from VIPS, GGSIPU, and a postgraduate in MAJMC from the University of Lucknow, Akash combines his academic credentials with a deep-rooted passion for cricket.His background as a former junior-level wrestler and cricketer enriches his insightful analysis and commentary on the game. Known for his inventive approach to writing and his commitment to capturing the nuances of cricket, Akash is a true aficionado of the sport.Connect with Akash on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram.