Exceptional batting, decent bowling, and unbelievable fielding performance helped New Zealand to win the opening game against Pakistan(NZ vs Pak) in the Champions Trophy 2025. Karachi witnessed a sizzling match between both teams. Young and Tom Latham took the game away from Pakistan during the first half when they both scored a century and took the team’s total to 320/5. Shane Bond applauds the team’s ‘disciplined’ performance in the opening encounter. He further added that this team has both depth and experience to go far in the tournament.
NZ vs PAK: Match Highlights
Pakistan skipper Mohammad Rizwan won the toss and offered their guest team to bat first. But, the decision turned unpleasant for the home team as New Zealand managed to put a humongous total on the board. The NZ vs PAK match was the talk of the town, as both the teams offer strength almost alike.
New Zealand again showed they are one of the most deserving teams to be on the trophy-winning list, with players like Tom Latham and Will Young, who do well in the game. They also offer power players and are currently the best fielders in the world.
Glenn Philips also slammed handy with the bat, where he scored 39-ball 61 in the cause. Not just with bat, they have a good bowling line-up as well.
Both Will O’Rourke and Mitchell Santner took three wickets in the game. Although they scored a decent 48 runs in the first powerplay, they still managed to increase the run rate in the middle overs. With a start like this and a win with a good margin team, New Zealand definitely will be among the first contenders for the next round of the tournament.
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Pakistan’s Lack of Intent Cost Them Inaugural Win Against New Zealand
Chasing a big total in an ICC tournament somehow puts the team on the back foot. This situation requires a player who steps out and does every possible thing for the game. Babar Azam and Khushdil Shah scored gritty half-centuries but could not take Pakistan to the winning line. The Men in Green looked uncomfortable against NZ’s bowling, and they kept losing wickets at regular intervals.
The hardship started for the home team when one of the finest Batsmen, Fakhar Zaman, suffered an injury while fielding for the team during the Champions Trophy 2025 opener in Karachi. He did not field during most of NZ’s innings but came out to bat at No.4 during the chase. However, he looked in pain but stayed on the pitch and faced 41 deliveries.
PCB also confirms that now he will not be part of the tournament and has ruled out due to the same.
NZ vs PAK: New Zealand's Exceptional Performance
In the inaugural Champions Trophy 2025 NZ vs PAK game, New Zealand have shown their team is the complete package and entertaining side. The dives in the fielding to save singles always put the opposition in trouble. Their game and composure have helped them defeat Pakistan by 60 runs. New Zealand is all set to play Bangladesh and India, respectively, in their upcoming matches. The high-voltage drama is waiting on the other side.