Ben Duckett's blistering hundred (165) powered England to a massive score of 351 for the loss of eight wickets against Australia in their ongoing Champions Trophy fixture in Lahore. The southpaw optimized the 'BAZBALL' instincts and took calculative risks to put Australian bowlers in complete backfoot. Duckett, who often has a reputation for not converting his starts into 'Daddy Hundreds' finally showed what he is capable of if he converts those starts into something substantial.
The southpaw singlehandedly enabled England to reach a massive score on a relatively flat track in Lahore. The 28-year-old's third hundred and his maiden ton in ICC events has given England bowlers a great total to defend. Duckett managed to seamlessly switch gears and accelerated well in different stages of the innings. Also, credit must also be given to Joe Root, who scored (68), and allowed Duckett to attack from one end. The duo shared a 158-run stand for the fourth wicket and laid the foundation for a big finish.
ADVERTISEMENT
Loading...
For Australia, no bowler in particular posed major threats to the English bowlers. Barring Adam Zampa (2/64), none of the bowlers could keep a tight leash on the England bowlers. Ben Dwarshuis ended up taking (3/66), but his economy rate was not that great.
Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025 Match 5: Pakistan vs India Match Preview & Where to watch live?
Ben Duckett's big hundred puts England on a commanding seat
While England can't take Australia's batting lineup lightly, Duckett's magnificent century has given their bowlers something to bowl at. The pitch in Lahore is not turning so much, and England would be hoping their big fast bowlers Jofra Archer, Mark Wood, and Carse manage to hit the hard lengths and trouble the Aussie batting lineup.
