New Zealand Dominate Pakistan in Champions Trophy 2025 Opener
New Zealand Outclass Pakistan by 60 Runs
New Zealand kicked off their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign with a commanding 60-run victory over Pakistan in the tournament opener at Karachi. A dominant batting display by Tom Latham and Will Young helped the Blackcaps post an imposing total of 320/5, which proved too much for the hosts.
Latham and Young Shine with Centuries
After being put to bat first, New Zealand faced early trouble at 73/3. However, Will Young (107) and Tom Latham (118*) turned the game around with a match-winning 118-run stand. Glenn Phillips provided a late flourish with a quickfire 61 off 39 balls, ensuring the Kiwis crossed the 300-run mark.
Pakistan’s Struggles in the Chase
Pakistan’s chase started on a disastrous note, with the hosts managing just 22/2 in the first 10 overs. Skipper Babar Azam fought hard with a 64-run knock but took 90 balls, slowing the required run rate. Khushdil Shah (69) and Salman Agha (42) tried to revive the innings, but Pakistan ultimately fell short.
New Zealand’s Bowlers Seal the Victory
William O’Rourke and Mitchell Santner led the Kiwi bowling attack, picking up three wickets each. Pakistan’s lower order couldn’t accelerate, leading to their downfall. Despite Naseem Shah’s efforts (2/63), the early breakthroughs were not enough to stop New Zealand’s batting dominance.
Key Highlights of the Match
- Will Young became the first batter to score a hundred in ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
- Tom Latham registered his 8th ODI century.
- The duo became the first New Zealand pair to score centuries in the same Champions Trophy innings.
With this win, New Zealand start their campaign on a high, while Pakistan will need to regroup for their next fixture.
