New Zealand secured a commanding 60-run victory over Pakistan in the opening match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi. Chasing 321, Pakistan faltered under pressure and were bowled out for 260.
Fakhar Zaman struggled to accelerate, scoring 24 off 41 balls, while Babar Azam top-scored with a fighting 73. However, regular wickets derailed Pakistan’s chase, with New Zealand’s disciplined bowling attack maintaining control. Mitchell Santner and Trent Boult led the charge, picking up crucial wickets to keep Pakistan in check.
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Earlier, New Zealand set a strong total of 320/5, thanks to centuries from Will Young (107) and Tom Latham (118*). Glenn Phillips added late fireworks with 61 off 39 balls. Pakistan’s bowlers, led by Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf, tried to contain the opposition but struggled to break key partnerships.
With this victory, New Zealand start their campaign on a high, while Pakistan will need to regroup ahead of their next match to keep their hopes alive in the tournament.
