The latest ODI World Cup winners Australia have shown their true caliber without prime bowlers as they stunned England in their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 opener, which produced a high-scoring multiple record-breaking match at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. 

Australian captain Steven Smith chose to field first after winning the toss as they expected dew in the second innings. It proved to be true as England scored the record-breaking total in tournament history with 351/8, and Australia comfortably chased down the target in 47.3 overs after losing five wickets to set a new highest total record (356/5) in ICC Champions Trophy history.  

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Ben Duckett recorded highest score in ICC Champions Trophy

Opener Ben Duckett had an important role in England's innings to set a record target for Australia. Although Duckett was busy scoring quickly in the powerplay, his opening partner Phil Salt (10) fell early. England's testing with Jamie Smith (15) didn't work well, as the youngster only faced 13 balls.

Duckett and Joe Root built the English innings and guided the team to a big total. They had a 158-run partnership for the third wicket. While Duckett scored 50 runs off 49 balls, Root completed his half-century in 56 balls. Adam Zampa broke that partnership after dismissing Root for 68 off 78 balls (four fours).

While Harry Brook (3) fell early, captain Jos Buttler (23) and Liam Livingstone (14) couldn't add big runs. However, Duckett had a valuable 61-run partnership for the fifth wicket with Buttler, where the opener dominated. Duckett completed his third ODI century in 95 balls. Later, the opener added more power to record the highest individual score in tournament history by becoming the first player to score 150 runs in the ICC Champions Trophy. He completed 150 runs in 134 balls and scored 165 off 143 balls with 17 fours and three sixes before Marnus Labuschagne dismissed him in the 48th over. 

Jofra Archer scored 21 not out off just 10 balls to ensure a record total in the ICC Champions Trophy as England became the first team to score 350+ runs in the ICC Champions Trophy.

Among the Aussie bowlers, Ben Dwarshuis took three wickets (3/66), while Adam Zampa (2/64) and Marnus Labuschagne (2/41) got two wickets each. 

Josh Inglis recorded joint-fastest century in ICC Champions Trophy to record highest chase in tournament

Chasing down the giant target, Australia lost their opener Travis Head (6) and skipper Steven Smith (5) cheaply, which made the chasing almost impossible for them in the early look. However, another opener Matthew Short controlled the situation with Marnus Labuschagne. They had a 95-run partnership for the third wicket before Labuschagne (47 off 45 balls) and Short (63 off 66 balls) lost their wickets in quick succession. 

While Australia were once again in a tough situation in the record chase, English bowlers then struggled to handle the dew effect. Wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis and Alex Carey slammed a solid 146-run partnership for the fifth wicket that destroyed English hope. Inglis reached 50 runs in 41 balls, and Carey completed his half-century in 49 balls. Although Brydon Carse dismissed Carey for 69 off 63 balls (eight fours), Inglis' spirit was unharmed, and he got another strong support from Glenn Maxwell. 

In less than six overs, Inglis and Maxwell set a 74-run partnership for the unbroken sixth wicket. Inglis equalled the fastest century record in ICC Champions Trophy history by completing it in 77 balls. The English bowlers had no answer in the tough bowling conditions, where the Aussie middle-order batters had no mercy. 

Player of the Match Inglis scored 120 not out off 86 balls with eight fours and six sixes. Meanwhile, Maxwell was not out for 32 runs in 15 balls with four fours and two sixes. Five out of six English bowlers managed to pick a wicket, but none of them added any others to the tally. 

Australian wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis rewrote the history of the fastest century in ICC Champions Trophy history, as his heroic batting performance played a major role in Australia's stunning win against England by recording the highest total in tournament history. 

It was the first match for both Australia and England in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore hosted the fourth match of the tournament, where England scored the record tournament total of 351/8 in 50 overs, majorly thanks to opener Ben Duckett's tournament record-breaking score of 165 off 143 balls (17 fours and three sixes). 

Although Australia lost their first two wickets cheaply, Matthew Short and Marnus Labuschgane first handled the early situation, and later, the wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis dominated with the support of Alex Carey and Glenn Maxwell. 

Inglis had a 146-run partnership for the fifth wicket with Carey, and then he set another flying 74-run partnership with Maxwell for the unbroken sixth wicket, which lasted for 35 legitimated balls to secure an unforgettable victory in tournament history. 

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Josh Inglis recorded joint-fastest century in ICC Champions Trophy history

After completing his half-century in 41 balls, Inglis rushed to his maiden ODI century in just 77 balls. By completing his century, Inglis equaled the record for the fastest century in ICC Champions Trophy history. Former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag previously held the record for lonely after scoring a 77-ball century against England in the ICC Champions Trophy 2002. 

Wicketkeeper-batter Inglis scored 120 not out off only 86 balls with the help of eight fours and six sixes. It was the third-highest score by a wicketkeeper-batter in the ICC Champions Trophy. While it was the fifth time that a wicketkeeper-batter recorded a Champions Trophy century, three of these have recorded this edition. 

ICC Champions Trophy: Wicketkeeper-batters with centuries

Hosting nation Pakistan adds a new embarrassment to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 as the organisers mistakenly played the Indian national anthem during the Group B match Australia vs England on Saturday afternoon (February 22).

It is the fourth match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 where two-time winners Australia are facing two-time runners-up England, and both are starting their journey in the tournament with this match. Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore is hosting this match as it is the first game of the tournament at this venue. 

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Played Indian national anthem instead of Australian national anthem

Australian captain Steven Smith chose to bat first after winning the toss in their tournament opener. Just before the beginning of England's innings in the match, both teams lined up for the national anthem. It was the time for the Australian national anthem when the organisers mistakenly played the Indian national anthem. Later, they learned that mistake and stopped it to play the original anthem. Aussie cricketers and fans were stunned by that mistake.  

Indian national anthem in #ENGvsAUS match😂
yeh yeh porki bolte hai hamara andian mazaak kyu udaate hai...#ChampionsTrophy2025 pic.twitter.com/073TQKAGN6

— Right choice (@Bipulkumar88088) February 22, 2025

ICC Champions Trophy 2025: India aren't playing Pakistan

In the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025, India aren't playing any of their matches in Pakistan. Due to long-term political issues between the two countries and security reasons, the Men in Blue haven't traveled to Pakistan, and they are playing all their matches in the tournament at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in Dubai in the United Arab Emirates. 

In the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, India are in Group A along with hosts Pakistan, New Zealand, and Bangladesh. The Men in Blue started the tournament with a six-wicket win against Bangladesh, and they will face arch-rival Pakistan on Sunday (February 23) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.  

As anticipation reaches a fever pitch for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, cricket enthusiasts around the globe eagerly await the clash of titans in what promises to be a thrilling tournament. The ICC events stand as the crown jewels of international cricket, drawing millions of fans worldwide to witness the pinnacle of cricketing excellence.

This ninth edition of the T20 World Cup holds unprecedented significance, expanding to include a record 20 teams and venturing into new cricketing territories with matches to be played on American soil. The inclusion of teams like Canada, Uganda, and the United States reflects the sport’s growing diversity and the depth of talent on a global scale.

As England, the defending champions, gear up to defend their title, the absence of star all-rounder Ben Stokes adds an intriguing twist to the narrative. However, with a field teeming with talent and potential, every match in the tournament promises to be a riveting encounter, showcasing the exhilarating unpredictability of T20 cricket.

Throughout the tournament, cricket enthusiasts will be treated to a series of must-watch games that epitomize the essence of the sport’s most electrifying format. From fierce rivalries to underdog triumphs, these matchups are set to captivate audiences and carve unforgettable moments in cricketing history.

Through the following, you will discover five must-watch games of the ICC T20 World Cup 2024, highlighting the matchups poised to enthral audiences and create lasting memories for cricket fans worldwide. Get ready to witness edge-of-the-seat excitement and exhilarating cricketing action as the world’s best teams vie for T20 supremacy.

India vs Pakistan, 9th June 2024, Tuesday: A Historic Showdown in the ICC T20 World Cup

The much-anticipated clash between India and Pakistan in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 transcends mere cricket; it’s a cultural phenomenon that unites fans and ignites passions across the globe. As two cricketing giants, the rivalry between these teams holds immense significance, with each encounter raising the stakes and intensifying the anticipation.

Venue: Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, New York

Adding to the spectacle is the iconic backdrop of the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York, marking a historic moment for cricket in the United States. With its grandeur and significance, this venue sets the stage for an unforgettable match between India and Pakistan. Scheduled for the 9th of June, the match will commence at 8 pm IST.

Where to Watch

For cricket enthusiasts eager to witness this epic showdown, the match will be live-streamed for free on the Disney+ Hotstar mobile app. This ensures that fans worldwide can experience every moment of the action, immersing themselves in the thrill and excitement of one of cricket’s most celebrated rivalries. Mark your calendars and prepare for a spectacle as the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium awaits the clash of titans.

Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh: A Thrilling Encounter in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024

In the ICC T20 World Cup 2024, the clash between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh is poised to deliver yet another enthralling chapter in their burgeoning rivalry. These two cricketing nations consistently produce captivating matches, showcasing their competitive spirit and skill on the global stage.

With each game promising nail-biting excitement and unpredictable twists, fans worldwide are in for a treat as these teams battle it out. Controversies, such as Angelo Mathews’ timed-out incident in the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup, only add to the drama, fueling intense discussions among cricket enthusiasts. As both teams seek to assert their dominance, this clash guarantees box office entertainment, fueled by determination, passion, and skill.

Venue: Grand Prairie Stadium

The stage is set at the Grand Prairie Stadium, where Sri Lanka and Bangladesh will compete for supremacy in the tournament. As anticipation builds and the stakes soar, fans can expect nothing short of a thrilling spectacle that keeps them on the edge of their seats until the final ball. The match is scheduled to commence at 6 AM IST on the 8th of June.

Where to Watch

Cricket aficionados can catch all the action live on the Disney+ Hotstar mobile app. With seamless streaming and comprehensive coverage, fans won’t miss a moment of the excitement as Sri Lanka and Bangladesh go head-to-head in this electrifying encounter.

Australia vs England: The Ashes Rivalry Reignited in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024

The 8th of June promises a double-header featuring one of cricket’s most storied rivalries: Australia vs England in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024. This clash brings together two cricketing powerhouses and reignites the fierce Ashes rivalry on the global stage.

While Australia has historically dominated the Ashes, showcasing their prowess and resilience, defending champions England are determined to stage a comeback and reclaim their cricketing pride. As these titans of the game lock horns once again, cricket fans can expect nothing short of a spectacle that transcends borders and captivates audiences worldwide.

Venue: Kensington Oval, Barbados

The historic Kensington Oval in Barbados provides the perfect backdrop for this epic showdown, where the echoes of cricketing legends past add to the intensity of the contest. With its rich history and iconic atmosphere, the stadium sets the stage for an unforgettable battle between bat and ball. The match is set to begin at 10:30 PM IST.

Where to Watch

Viewers can catch the action live on the Disney+ Hotstar mobile app. With seamless streaming and comprehensive coverage, fans can immerse themselves in the excitement from anywhere worldwide, ensuring they don’t miss a single moment of this gripping encounter.

Afghanistan vs West Indies: A Triumphant Return to the ICC T20 World Cup 2024

As the hosts, West Indies, grace the field in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024, it marks a triumphant return after missing out on qualifications in 2021 and 2022. This sets the stage for a dramatic comeback in front of their home crowd, with the 2016 champions eager to reclaim their former glory and make a resounding statement on the global stage.

With Afghanistan rapidly ascending the ranks and boasting talents like Rashid Khan and Noor Ahmed spinning their webs, and West Indies fueled by the enthusiasm of their home crowd, this match promises to be nothing short of spectacular. Don’t miss out on what promises to be an unforgettable showdown in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024.

Venue: Beausejour Stadium

The iconic Beausejour Stadium provides the perfect backdrop for this crucial encounter, where the winds of cricketing fate will sway in favour of either Afghanistan or the West Indies. With its rich history and electrifying atmosphere, the stadium sets the stage for a match filled with adrenaline and anticipation. The game is scheduled to begin at 6 AM IST on the 18th of June.

Where to Watch

Catch all the action from this thrilling encounter live on the Disney+ Hotstar mobile app. Whether at home or on the go, the app ensures you never miss a moment of excitement. Tune in to witness the clash between Afghanistan and West Indies as it unfolds in real-time, and experience the drama, passion, and skill of T20 cricket at its finest.

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Sri Lanka vs South Africa: A Clash of Cricketing Titans

The clash between Sri Lanka and South Africa in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 promises to be a riveting contest between two formidable cricketing nations. For South Africa, the ICC trophy has remained elusive, with the Proteas yet to claim a major ICC title despite their consistent performances over the years. However, armed with a talented squad and a hunger for success, they enter this tournament with renewed determination to break their duck and etch their name in cricketing history.

On the other hand, Sri Lanka is known for turning up in significant events, often defying the odds and producing stellar performances when it matters most. With a proud cricketing heritage and a tradition of excellence in limited-overs cricket, the Sri Lankan team brings a wealth of experience and skill to the table. As they step onto the field at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, fans can expect an evening of high-intensity cricket, where every run, wicket, and catch will be crucial in determining the outcome of this thrilling encounter.

Venue: Nassau County International Cricket Stadium

Located in the heart of New York, the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium provides the perfect setting for this exciting match. With its state-of-the-art facilities and passionate cricket fans, the stadium is set to buzz with energy as Sri Lanka and South Africa battle it out on the pitch. The match is set to begin at 8 PM IST on the 3rd of June.

Where to Watch

Cricket enthusiasts can watch this highly anticipated match live on the Disney+ Hotstar mobile app. With its seamless streaming and comprehensive coverage, the app ensures that fans don’t miss any action from this crucial encounter in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024.

Cricket Australia announced the schedule for their home summer and Melbourne will host the Australia Women’s team in a Test for the first time since 1949. On the other hand, India and Australia will be starting the 2024-25 Border Gavaskar Trophy on November 22 at Perth.

Historic Women’s Ashes at iconing MCG

While the debate over women’s Test cricket seems like a never-ending one, Australia will be hosting England at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground for a 4-day Pink ball Women’s Ashes Test in January. MCG will be hosting a D/N Test match for the first time to mark the 90th year anniversary of the first Women’s Test series between Australia and England in 1934-35.

After the previous two Women’s Ashes were held at North Sydney Oval and Canberra, the Cricket Australia committed to schedule the Women’s Ashes Tests at some prime venues around the country this time. As a result, the iconic MCG will get to host the Women’s Test first time since 1948-49. It will also be the first time that a women’s international cricket match will be played at the MCG after 2020 T20 World Cup semi-final.

Border-Gavaskar Trophy schedule out

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy comprised of five Test matches between Australia and India will begin on November 22 in Perth. The second Test will be a D/N one played at the Adelaide Oval from December 6 followed by third Test at Brisbane from December 14, the Boxing Day Test at Melbourne from December 26 and the New Year Test from January 3 at Sydney.

While speaking of giving Perth the first match of the series over Brisbane, Peter Roach, CA’s head of scheduling mentioned about multiple factors including the broadcast timezone suitable for audiences from both countries. He also added, “The clear advice from our national team is that there is a preference to start series strongly at venues where they’re really comfortable and Perth and Brisbane they believe are somewhat comparable in terms of the advantage they get out of that.”