The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has reignited the intense Ashes rivalry as England faces Australia in Lahore. The final fixture of the first round brings excitement as both teams aim for a strong start.
- England stabilizes after early wickets
- Ben Duckett and Joe Root rebuild the innings
- Australia deals with major injury setbacks
- Steve Smith leads Australia in absence of Cummins
- England eyes first-ever Champions Trophy title
England’s Start: Early Setback and Recovery
England’s batting faced a tough start as Phil Salt fell early in the second over. Alex Carey took a brilliant catch off Ben Dwarshius’ delivery. Jamie Smith followed soon, leaving England struggling in the powerplay.
However, Ben Duckett and Joe Root steadied the innings. Duckett, in fine form, smashed a half-century off 51 balls. By the end of the powerplay, England reached 73/2 after Australia chose to bowl first.
Australia’s Injury Woes and Leadership Change
Australia entered the Champions Trophy with several injuries. Their pace attack suffered major losses, with Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc ruled out. Mitchell Marsh was also deemed unfit for the tournament.
With Cummins absent, Steve Smith took charge as captain. This is Smith’s second time leading Australia in a Champions Trophy, having previously captained in 2017.
Australia’s Recent ODI Struggles
Australia’s form has been shaky coming into the tournament. They suffered a 2-0 defeat against Sri Lanka in their last ODI series. Interestingly, Australia’s last Champions Trophy victory came in 2009, when they lifted the title.
England’s Quest for Their First Title
England also faced setbacks before the Champions Trophy 2025. They were whitewashed 3-0 by India in an ODI series. Jos Buttler’s squad now aims to make history by winning their first-ever Champions Trophy.
Playing XI for Both Teams:
Australia:
- Matthew Short
- Travis Head
- Steve Smith (c)
- Marnus Labuschagne
- Josh Inglis (wk)
- Alex Carey
- Glenn Maxwell
- Ben Dwarshuis
- Nathan Ellis
- Adam Zampa
- Spencer Johnson
England:
- Philip Salt
- Ben Duckett
- Jamie Smith (wk)
- Joe Root
- Harry Brook
- Jos Buttler (c)
- Liam Livingstone
- Brydon Carse
- Jofra Archer
- Adil Rashid
- Mark Wood
Australia’s Tactical Move: Bowling First
Steve Smith’s decision to bowl first at Gaddafi Stadium seems strategic. Given England’s recent ODI form, early wickets were crucial for Australia’s defense. Alex Carey, stepping in as a key fielder, took two vital catches.
England’s Strength: Experienced Batting Lineup
With Joe Root anchoring the innings and Ben Duckett providing aggressive stroke play, England’s batting looks solid. Their challenge is to post a competitive total against a weakened Australian attack.
Both teams will fight for early momentum in the tournament. Can England capitalize on Australia’s weakened bowling attack? Or will Australia’s experienced squad pull off a comeback? The stage is set for a thrilling Champions Trophy 2025 showdown.
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