New Zealand Dominate Pakistan in Champions Trophy 2025 Opener
New Zealand Outclass Pakistan with a 60-Run Victory
NZ made a dominant start to their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign with an impressive 60-run victory over Pakistan in the tournament opener at Karachi. A strong batting performance by Tom Latham and Will Young propelled the Blackcaps to 320/5, setting a target that proved too challenging for Pakistan.
Latham and Young Lead New Zealand’s Batting Charge
Batting first, New Zealand faced early trouble at 73/3, losing key wickets in quick succession. However, Will Young (107) and Tom Latham (118) built a match-defining 118-run partnership*, stabilizing the innings. As the game progressed, Glenn Phillips provided a late boost, smashing 61 off just 39 balls, ensuring New Zealand finished strong with a massive total.
Pakistan Falter in Their Chase Against New Zealand
Chasing 321, Pakistan struggled to gain momentum, losing early wickets and managing just 22/2 in the first 10 overs. Despite a gritty 64-run knock by Babar Azam, his slow strike rate of 90 balls increased the pressure on the batting lineup. Khushdil Shah (69) and Salman Agha (42) made notable contributions, but the required run rate kept climbing beyond reach.
New Zealand Bowlers Dominate to Seal Victory
A clinical bowling performance from New Zealand ensured their first win in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. William O’Rourke and Mitchell Santner led the attack, taking three wickets each, dismantling Pakistan’s batting order. While Naseem Shah (2/63) tried to turn things around for Pakistan, New Zealand’s disciplined approach secured the win.
