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Whenever Australia and England clash in any format, the intensity is always at its peak, and this match will be no different. Both teams will be eager to begin their campaign in Group B with a strong performance at the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
With an Ashes series scheduled for later in the year, this encounter in Lahore sets the stage for a high-stakes battle. Australia may have won the previous Cricket World Cup, but they will miss their frontline pace attack, with Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood unavailable.
England, on the other hand, come into this tournament following a disastrous white-ball series in India, where they lost seven out of eight games. Their ODI form remains uncertain, and this match will be crucial in setting the tone for their tournament campaign.
Match Details
| Match | Australia vs England |
|---|---|
| Date | 22nd February 2025 |
| Time | 2:00 PM Local Time |
| Venue | Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore |
| Format | 50-over ODI |
Teams Preview
Australia Preview
Australia dominated their Test series against Sri Lanka, but they struggled in the ODI format, suffering a 2-0 defeat. With a history of underwhelming performances in the ICC Champions Trophy since their last victory in 2009, they need to put up a strong fight in this campaign opener.
Captain Steven Smith will be a key figure in guiding the squad, particularly with the experience he brings to the middle order. Travis Head, who has been exceptional in ODIs against England, will be crucial at the top of the order. Matthew Short and Jake Fraser-McGurk add a fresh dynamic to the batting lineup, while Glenn Maxwell’s all-round abilities will provide balance.
The absence of their frontline pacers means the team will rely on Nathan Ellis and Ben Dwarshuis to lead the attack. Adam Zampa’s spin will be pivotal, especially in the middle overs, as Australia look to contain England’s aggressive batting unit.
Australia Predicted Playing XI:
Matthew Short, Travis Head, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Steven Smith (c), Josh Inglis (wk), Aaron Hardie, Glenn Maxwell, Sean Abbott, Ben Dwarshuis, Adam Zampa, Nathan Ellis
England Preview
Since their historic 2019 Cricket World Cup win, England’s ODI performances have been inconsistent. They now enter the ICC Champions Trophy with question marks over their squad’s ability to adapt to the 50-over format.
Brendan McCullum’s leadership brings optimism, and his aggressive cricketing approach could reignite England’s campaign. Ben Duckett, returning from injury, will be vital at the top, while Phil Salt is expected to take an attacking approach during the powerplay. The middle order boasts experience, with Joe Root, Harry Brook, and captain Jos Buttler expected to provide stability and firepower.
England’s bowling attack carries potential threats, with Adil Rashid’s spin often proving effective against Australia. Jofra Archer’s pace could be a game-changer, while Mark Wood and Saqib Mahmood will be crucial in the seam department.
England Predicted Playing XI:
Phil Salt, Ben Duckett, Joe Root, Jamie Smith (wk), Harry Brook, Jos Buttler (c), Liam Livingstone, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Mark Wood, Saqib Mahmood
Fantasy Team XI
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Wicketkeeper | Jos Buttler |
| Batters | Steven Smith, Travis Head, Joe Root, Harry Brook |
| All-rounders | Glenn Maxwell, Liam Livingstone, Aaron Hardie |
| Bowlers | Jofra Archer, Adam Zampa, Mark Wood |
Pitch Report
The Gaddafi Stadium pitch in Lahore has proven to be a high-scoring surface. Batters will find it easy to score, especially after settling in. The outfield is quick, and power hitters will enjoy the conditions.
- Average First Innings Score: 290-350
- Highest Total Recorded: 375
- Pace Bowling: Offers good bounce and carry, especially under lights
- Spin Bowling: Moderate turn, with conditions favoring spinners in the middle overs
Toss Prediction: Bat First
With clear weather and a dry pitch, batting first will be advantageous. The team setting a target will look to post a score above 320, considering the conditions.
Winning Prediction
Both teams enter this fixture with concerns over their bowling units. However, Australia’s batting lineup looks more stable, and their experience in ICC tournaments gives them an edge.
While England have the firepower, their struggles in ODIs make it difficult to back them confidently. Expect a close contest, but Australia have the upper hand.
Prediction: Australia to win!
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