Josh Inglis: England-Born Star Smashes Century Against His Birth Nation, Breaks 20-Year-Old Record
The 2025 Champions Trophy witnessed an electrifying moment on February 22, when Australian wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis stunned the cricketing world with a blistering 77-ball century against England. His remarkable innings of 120 off 86 balls*, decorated with eight fours and six sixes, not only powered Australia to a record-breaking chase but also shattered a two-decade-old milestone set by legendary wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist.
With his breathtaking performance, Inglis etched his name in history, equaling Virender Sehwag‘s record for the fastest century in Champions Trophy history. His heroics led Australia to a stunning victory, chasing down England’s formidable 351-run total in just 47.3 overs, securing a five-wicket win in one of the most dramatic encounters of the tournament.
Josh Inglis’ Century: A Knock for the Ages
Born in Leeds, West Yorkshire, Josh Inglis was once an aspiring cricketer in England’s domestic circuit. However, his decision to represent Australia has been nothing short of transformative for the kangaroos. When faced with his country of birth, Inglis responded in the most emphatic manner possible—by crafting a masterclass in white-ball batting.
Walking in at a crucial juncture, Inglis wasted no time in counterattacking England’s bowling attack. His century came in just 77 deliveries, making him the joint-fastest century-maker in Champions Trophy history, tying with Virender Sehwag’s feat from 2002 against England at Colombo’s RPS Stadium.
The highlight of his innings was his remarkable ability to find gaps and clear the ropes effortlessly, displaying a mix of class, power, and finesse. Inglis’ onslaught ensured Australia not only chased down a mammoth 351-run target but also set a new benchmark in ICC tournaments.
Breaking a 20-Year-Old Record: Inglis Surpasses Gilchrist
Before Inglis’ fireworks, the record for the fastest century by an Australian in the Champions Trophy belonged to none other than the iconic Adam Gilchrist. In 2005, Gilchrist had scored a blazing hundred off 81 balls against England, a record that stood untouched for two decades.
Josh Inglis, however, rewrote history, surpassing Gilchrist’s milestone with a century in just 77 balls—making it the fastest by any Australian in Champions Trophy history. His innings also made him only the fourth Australian player to score a century in all three formats (Tests, ODIs, and T20Is), joining the elite company of:
- Shane Watson
- Glenn Maxwell
- David Warner
With this monumental achievement, Inglis has firmly established himself as one of Australia’s premier white-ball cricketers.
Australia Completes Historic Chase, Sets ICC Record
Australia’s chase of 351 runs against England was not just an ordinary run-chase—it was historic. This was the highest successful run chase in ICC tournament history, surpassing all previous records in World Cup, T20 World Cup, and Champions Trophy competitions.
Before this match, no team had ever successfully chased 350+ runs in an ICC event. Australia’s 356/5 in 47.3 overs rewrote history, leaving cricket pundits and fans in sheer disbelief.
Key Moments in Australia’s Record Chase
- David Warner (88 off 65 balls) provided a flying start, taking on England’s new-ball bowlers.
- Josh Inglis (120 off 86 balls)* played a match-winning anchor role, accelerating at the perfect moment.
- Glenn Maxwell (52 off 28 balls) added the finishing touches with his signature brutal hitting.
- Marcus Stoinis (24 off 11 balls)* ensured Australia crossed the line with three overs to spare.
Australia’s ability to dominate under pressure in an ICC knockout tournament was once again on full display, showcasing why they remain a powerhouse in international cricket.
England’s 351 in Vain Despite Bairstow’s Heroics
England had set a commanding total of 351/7 in 50 overs, largely thanks to a scintillating knock by Jonny Bairstow (144 off 127 balls). Bairstow, supported by contributions from Joe Root (79 off 68 balls) and Jos Buttler (54 off 39 balls), had put England in a seemingly invincible position.
However, their bowlers failed to defend the total, unable to contain the Australian onslaught led by Inglis. The lack of penetration from England’s pace attack, coupled with the inability to break partnerships at crucial junctures, proved costly.
Despite their best efforts, England succumbed to Australia’s fearless approach, marking a disappointing end to their Champions Trophy campaign.
Josh Inglis: Australia’s Next White-Ball Superstar?
Josh Inglis’ emergence as a match-winner in ODIs adds a new dimension to Australia’s already formidable batting lineup. His aggressive yet composed approach at the crease makes him:
✅ A versatile middle-order batsman who can accelerate at will
✅ A dependable wicketkeeper, offering Australia additional flexibility
✅ An ideal finisher with the ability to take down top bowling attacks
His consistency across Tests, ODIs, and T20Is has drawn comparisons to legendary Australian cricketers. With age on his side, Inglis has the potential to become one of the finest all-format batters of his generation.
Australia’s Dominance in ICC Events Continues
With this victory, Australia once again asserted its dominance on the global stage. Their record in ICC tournaments remains unmatched, and with the likes of Josh Inglis, Glenn Maxwell, and David Warner firing in unison, they look poised for even greater heights.
Australia’s ability to chase down a record total of 351 under pressure is a testament to their relentless hunger for success. This win not only secured their place in the tournament’s knockout stages but also sent a warning to their rivals—Australia is here to win, and they mean business.
A Landmark Knock for Inglis, A Statement Win for Australia
Josh Inglis’ record-breaking century against England will go down as one of the most iconic moments in Champions Trophy history. His breathtaking knock not only:
✅ Surpassed a 20-year-old record
✅ Equaled Sehwag’s fastest century feat
✅ Helped Australia complete a historic chase
But also cemented his status as a game-changer in world cricket. With ICC events intensifying, Australia’s resurgence, led by Inglis’ brilliance, makes them the team to beat in 2025.
One thing is clear—Josh Inglis has arrived, and he is here to stay.
