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The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy kicked off with an intense contest between New Zealand and Pakistan at the National Stadium in Karachi, marking the return of a major ICC tournament to Pakistan after 29 years. While the match was anticipated for its historic significance, the impact of dew on the conditions became a critical talking point, influencing both captains’ preference to chase after winning the toss.
New Zealand’s Commanding Batting Performance
New Zealand capitalized on the batting-friendly conditions to post a formidable total of 320/5 in 50 overs, powered by Tom Latham’s unbeaten 118 and Will Young’s brilliant 107. Their composed yet aggressive approach ensured that New Zealand built a foundation strong enough to withstand the challenges posed by Pakistan’s bowling attack.
Early Setbacks and a Strong Rebuild
New Zealand had a positive start, with Young punishing Pakistan’s pacers early on. However, Pakistan clawed back into the game with quick wickets.
- Abrar Ahmed, introduced in the sixth over, struck immediately, dismissing Devon Conway (12) with a well-disguised slider.
- The pressure was compounded when Naseem Shah found the faintest of edges from Kane Williamson (7), reducing New Zealand to 43/2 in the ninth over.
- Daryl Mitchell, struggling to adjust to the inconsistent bounce, was hurried on a pull shot and fell to Haris Rauf for 17, leaving New Zealand at 73/3 in the 17th over.
Latham and Young’s Match-Defining Partnership
Despite these early setbacks, New Zealand stabilized their innings through a crucial 118-run partnership between Young and Latham. The duo’s patience, strategic strike rotation, and timely boundary hitting allowed New Zealand to take control of the game.
- Young reached his century in style, becoming only the fourth New Zealander to score a Champions Trophy hundred. His 107 off 116 balls included 12 fours and a six.
- Latham, initially playing the anchor role, accelerated post his fifty, getting to his eighth ODI century in just 92 balls. He remained unbeaten at 118 off 101 deliveries, ensuring New Zealand finished strongly.
Phillips’ Late Assault Adds Crucial Runs
After Young’s dismissal, Glenn Phillips provided the late push that New Zealand needed, capitalizing on Pakistan’s death bowling struggles.
- The hard-hitting middle-order batter smashed 61 off just 39 balls, including powerful strokes against Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf.
- His acceleration helped New Zealand plunder 90 runs in the last 10 overs, pushing their total beyond 300.
Pakistan’s Bowling Struggles and Key Moments
Pakistan’s bowlers faced challenges due to a lack of movement and dew reducing grip on the ball. Their inconsistent lengths and missed chances allowed New Zealand to dominate.
- Naseem Shah (2/63) and Haris Rauf (1/55) were the standout performers but lacked support from others.
- Pakistan’s fielding woes were highlighted when Latham was dropped on 41, a missed opportunity that proved costly.
Statistical Insights & Match Impact
- 320/5 is the highest total in a Champions Trophy match in Pakistan.
- Latham’s 118 is the highest individual score by a New Zealand captain in the tournament’s history.*
- Young became the 4th New Zealand batter to score a Champions Trophy century.
- Phillips’ strike rate of 156.41 in the last 10 overs was the highest in the match.
Pakistan’s Chase: A Daunting Task Ahead
With dew expected to heavily influence the second innings, Pakistan’s batters face a challenging yet chaseable target.
- A solid start in the powerplay will be key, as early wickets could put pressure on the middle order.
- New Zealand’s bowling attack, featuring Trent Boult and Tim Southee, will aim to exploit any remaining lateral movement before dew sets in.
- Pakistan will need Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Fakhar Zaman to fire if they are to mount a successful chase.
The stage is set for an exciting second half, with Pakistan needing a perfect blend of composure and aggression to chase down 321. Can they rise to the occasion, or will New Zealand’s disciplined bowling seal an early tournament victory? All eyes are on Karachi!
