The Champions Trophy 2025 kicked off with a thrilling encounter between Pakistan and New Zealand at the National Stadium, Karachi. New Zealand secured a commanding 60-run victory, showcasing an all-round performance with bat and ball.
Young and Latham Anchor New Zealand’s Innings
Pakistan won the toss and elected to bowl first. New Zealand’s start was shaky, losing Devon Conway (10) and Kane Williamson (1) early. However, Will Young (107) and Tom Latham (118) stabilized the innings* with a brilliant partnership.
New Zealand reached 150 in 30.3 overs, setting the stage for an explosive finish. Glenn Phillips (61 off 39) provided late fireworks, pushing the score to 320/5.
Champion stuff! 🙌🏻#WillYoung completes a scintillating century on his #ChampionsTrophy debut against the defending champions! 👏🏻💯
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) February 19, 2025
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Pakistan’s Bowling Struggles
Pakistan’s bowlers found it hard to contain the New Zealand batters.
- Naseem Shah (2/63) and Haris Rauf (2/83) tried to break partnerships.
- The economy rate remained high, allowing New Zealand to build momentum.
A quality knock! 💯#TomLatham brings up a stunning century, putting New Zealand firmly in command against the defending champions! 💪🏻
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) February 19, 2025
FACT: Fifth time two batters have scored centuries in an innings in Champions Trophy!
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Pakistan’s Batting Collapse
Chasing 321, Pakistan’s batting crumbled early. Saud Shakeel and Mohammad Rizwan fell quickly, reducing the team to 22/2 in 10 overs.
- Babar Azam (64 off 90) and Salman Agha (42 off 28) attempted to fight back.
- Pakistan was at 153/6 in 34 overs, with the required run rate climbing.
Composed under pressure! 🏏#BabarAzam brings up a crucial fifty, keeping Pakistan’s chase on track! Will he see the defending champions through? 👀🔥
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) February 19, 2025
📺📱 Start watching FREE on JioHotstar: https://t.co/T07mgtb2xJ#ChampionsTrophyOnJioStar 👉 #PAKvNZ LIVE NOW on Star Sports 2… pic.twitter.com/ZQuQ02bZpU
Khushdil Shah’s Late Resistance
With the game slipping away, Khushdil Shah played a fighting knock of 69 off 49 balls. Despite his efforts, wickets kept falling.
- O’Rourke (3/47) and Santner (3/66) ensured Pakistan never recovered.
- Pakistan got all out for 260 in 47.2 overs, handing New Zealand a dominant victory.
TONKED! 💥#KhushdilShah is keeping this chase alive with a thumping six off #GlennPhillips over wide long-on! 🙌🏻
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) February 19, 2025
📺📱 Start watching FREE on JioHotstar: https://t.co/T07mgtb2xJ#ChampionsTrophyOnJioStar 👉 #PAKvNZ LIVE NOW on Star Sports 2 & Sports18-1 & Sports18-Khel! pic.twitter.com/teipkmPwEO
New Zealand’s Strong Start in Champions Trophy 2025
New Zealand’s performance highlights their intent in the Champions Trophy 2025. Their batting depth and bowling strength make them strong contenders for the title.
What’s Next in Champions Trophy 2025?
With a strong start, New Zealand will look to continue their winning streak. Pakistan, on the other hand, needs to regroup and come back stronger in their next match.
Check out the Champions Trophy Stats
