New Zealand Dominates as Pakistan Stumbles in Champions Trophy 2025 Opener
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 kicked off at National Bank Stadium, Karachi, where cricket fans witnessed a thrilling encounter. However, Pakistan’s campaign began on a disappointing note as New Zealand beats Pakistan and secured a 60-run victory in the tournament’s opening match.
Winning the toss, Pakistan’s skipper Mohammad Rizwan chose to bowl, expecting favorable conditions later in the game. However, the much-anticipated dew factor never arrived, leaving the hosts struggling against a disciplined New Zealand bowling attack.
New Zealand’s Batting Powerhouse Sets the Tone
New Zealand posted a solid total of 320/5 in 50 overs, thanks to outstanding performances by Tom Latham (118)* and Will Young (107). Their calculated approach ensured stability, while Glenn Phillips’ explosive 61 off 39 balls provided the perfect finish.
New Zealand’s Top Performers with the Bat:
| Player | Runs | Balls | 4s | 6s |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tom Latham | 118* | 130 | 10 | 3 |
| Will Young | 107 | 122 | 12 | 2 |
| Glenn Phillips | 61 | 39 | 5 | 2 |
Pakistan’s bowlers, despite a promising start, struggled in the death overs. Naseem Shah (2/58) and Haris Rauf (2/63) took key wickets, but New Zealand’s batters maintained control throughout.
Pakistan’s Batting Collapse: A Missed Opportunity
Chasing 321, Pakistan’s innings lacked momentum. A sluggish start saw the early departure of Saud Shakeel (6) and Rizwan (3), putting immense pressure on the middle order.
Despite a gritty 64 off 90 balls by Babar Azam and a spirited 69 off 49 balls by Khushdil Shah, Pakistan could not build strong partnerships. The innings eventually wrapped up at 260 in 47.2 overs.
Pakistan’s Key Batting Contributions:
| Player | Runs | Balls | 4s | 6s |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Babar Azam | 64 | 90 | 6 | 0 |
| Khushdil Shah | 69 | 49 | 7 | 2 |
| Salman Agha | 42 | 28 | 5 | 1 |
New Zealand’s Will O’Rourke (3/45) was instrumental in dismantling Pakistan’s top order, while Matt Henry and Mitchell Santner took key wickets to prevent any late comeback.
What’s Next for Pakistan? A Must-Win Against India
With this defeat, Pakistan now faces a high-stakes clash against India on Sunday. The Green Shirts must address their batting concerns and improve their death bowling if they want to stay in the tournament.
- Can Pakistan bounce back against their arch-rivals?
- Will New Zealand continue their winning momentum?
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