New Zealand Outsmarts Pakistan, Wins Champions Trophy Opener by 60 Runs

KARACHI, Pakistan (AP) — New Zealand asserted their dominance over defending champions Pakistan with a 60-run victory in the opening match of the Champions Trophy 2025 at the National Stadium on February 19, 2025. The Kiwis, powered by centuries from Will Young and Tom Latham, posted a formidable 320 runs after being put to bat by Pakistan skipper Mohammad Rizwan.

Young led the charge with a solid 107 runs, while Latham remained unbeaten at 118, guiding New Zealand to a total of 320 for 5 in 50 overs. Throughout the innings, New Zealand overcame an early setback of 73 for 3, thanks to a crucial 118-run partnership between Young and Latham. Glenn Phillips also contributed significantly at the end with a brisk 61 off just 39 balls, helping New Zealand finish strongly.

In response, Pakistan stumbled early in their chase with two quick wickets falling for just 22 runs within the first ten overs, with Babar Azam scoring 64 runs off 90 balls. Despite decent contributions from Khushdil Shah, who scored 69, and Salman Agha with 42 runs, Pakistan struggled to maintain a steady run rate. They were eventually bowled out for 260 runs in 47.2 overs, marking their fourth consecutive defeat to New Zealand.

“Their bowling was exceptional today,” Rizwan said post-match. “We needed to adapt our approach and failed to build the partnerships necessary for a successful chase.”

Meanwhile, New Zealand’s bowlers were relentless, with Mitchell Santner and William O'Rourke each claiming three wickets. O’Rourke’s performance included taking crucial middle-order wickets that stifled any chance of a Pakistan recovery during their innings.

Following the game, Young expressed satisfaction with his and his team’s performance. “It was great to contribute to the team’s success especially under pressure,” he said. “320 was a good total, but we expected the competition would be strong.”

The match highlighted both teams’ preparations for the prestigious tournament, returning to Pakistan’s cricket venues for the first time in 25 years. For Pakistan, the loss raises concerns about their form after a disappointing performance in the previous ODI World Cup and T20 World Cup tournaments.

As they look ahead, the pressure mounts on Pakistan to fix their inconsistency—a challenge they must tackle head-on to reclaim their standing in international cricket. They will face Bangladesh next on February 24 in Rawalpindi, where they will hope to turn the tide in their favor.