FANS EXPLODE AS STUNNING TONE POWERS JOSH INGLIS TO RECORD CHASE AGAINST ENGLAND IN CHAMPIONS TROPHY 2025
The Associated Press, [Tournament Venue], [Date] – The sold-out crowd at the [Tournament Venue] was left on the edge of their seats as Australian wicket-keeper batter Josh Inglis put on a barbaric display of batting brilliance, racing to a record-breaking 97 off 51 balls against England in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
The anticipated encounter between the world’s top two teams, Australia and England, lived up to its hype as Inglis treated the capacity crowd to a show that will be remembered for years to come. The 28-year-old right-hander’s incredible innings, laced with 8 fours and 4 sixes, was a whirlwind of pace and precision, leaving the English bowlers in knots.
Inglis’ astounding performance saw him surpass his own record of 82* (43b) set in 2022, as he scampered to the fastest 50 by an Australian in ODI cricket, taking just 24 deliveries. His attacking approach was further accentuated by the aggressive strike rate of 189.47, which left even the most seasoned fans in the packed stadium breathless.
The visitors’ batsmen, previously ranked No. 1 in the ICC ODI rankings, reached 2/227 in 25 overs, effectively setting their hosts a daunting target of 228 to level the series. Inglis’ incredible feat will undoubtedly have sent a strong message to the English team, who will need to regroup and refocus ahead of their second innings attempt.
Inglis, known for his sharp footwork and wristy strokeplay, was at his devastating best, finding the boundaries at will and picking up boundaries with ease. His hemisphere-hugging celebration, a signature move, was in full display as he reached his century, much to the delight of the partisan Australian fans.
The 41168-strong crowd was electric, with Melbourne’s Storm broadcasts flashing ‘ROYAL FLUSH’ and ‘LEGEND’ on the giant screen during his innings, acknowledging the big man’s colossal efforts. The SCG faithful, clad in their iconic Aussie colors, reveled in every moment of his unforgettable knock, responding to his every boundary with deafening cheers.
"Wow, this guy is an absolute genius at the crease!" tweeted one fan, echoing the sentiments of thousands. "Inglis is uncatchable!" exclaimed another, while a sea of phone cameras and expediently clicking shutters clicked away, capturing the Brett Lee-like majesty of the wunderkind.
This thrilling match has rekindled memories of the magical Andrew Flintoff-esque performance displayed by the cricketer during the 2011 WT20 Cup, which will be etched in the memory of fans worldwide for years to come. Inglis, known for his leadership qualities, will be expected to lead the Aussies from the front, providing a way to overcome the odds against a resolute England side.
With the momentum on their side, Australia will look to seal a thrilling series win in the second ODI, set to be played on [Date] at the [Tournament Venue]. As the Aussies prepare for the imminent showdown, fans and pundits alike can only hope that Inglis and his teammates can do the business, leaving the tournament and their enthusiastic supporters in a state of euphoria.
For now, as Inglis takes his leave, those fortunate enough to witness this astonishing performance will carry the memories of this scintillating display for a long, long time, knowing that the Golden Eagles have truly earned their stripes.
