New Zealand set a formidable target of 321 runs for Pakistan in the opening match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 at Karachi’s National Bank Stadium on Wednesday. Centuries from Tom Latham and Will Young powered the Blackcaps to 320/5 in their 50 overs.
Pakistan’s bowlers had an early impact, with Abrar Ahmed dismissing Devon Conway (10) before Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf removed Kane Williamson (1) and Daryl Mitchell (10), reducing New Zealand to 77/3. However, a 118-run partnership between Latham and Young steadied the innings. Young scored 107 off 113 balls, while Latham remained unbeaten on 118 from 104 deliveries. Glenn Phillips’ late 61 off 39 balls further boosted the total.
Also Read: President Zardari and First Lady Attend ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Opener in Karachi
For Pakistan, Naseem and Haris took two wickets each, with Abrar claiming one. President Asif Ali Zardari and First Lady Aseefa Bhutto Zardari attended the match, which featured an aerial display by the PAF Sherdils.
The Champions Trophy, hosted by Pakistan for the first time since 1996, will take place across Karachi, Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Dubai from February 19 to March 9. Pakistan faces India on February 23 in Dubai and Bangladesh on February 27 in Rawalpindi.
