Pakistan Falls to New Zealand by 60 Runs, Faces Champions Trophy Exit

In the opening match of the 2025 Champions Trophy, Pakistan faced off against New Zealand in a highly anticipated showdown. Unfortunately for Pakistan, their top-order batters struggled to gain any momentum while chasing a target of 321 runs. Throughout the first 25 overs, their run rate remained stagnant, barely exceeding 3 runs per over. As a result, Pakistan ultimately fell short, losing to New Zealand by a margin of 60 runs.

This defeat marked New Zealand’s fourth consecutive One Day International (ODI) victory on Pakistani soil, solidifying their status as strong contenders for the Champions Trophy title. Babar Azam, one of Pakistan’s key players, faced a challenging innings, taking 81 balls to reach fifty runs and accumulating 49 dot balls in the process. Despite a valiant effort from Salman Ali Agha, who scored 42 runs off 28 balls, Pakistan struggled to maintain momentum.

Fakhar Zaman, battling an injury that limited his mobility, faced additional challenges on the field. New Zealand capitalized on his physical limitations by deploying spinners and slowing down the pace of the game. Despite his determination to continue playing, Fakhar’s inability to run effectively hindered Pakistan’s performance.

In the early stages of the match, Babar Azam and Saud Shakeel opened for Pakistan, with Fakhar joining the lineup later due to his injury. Unfortunately, Shakeel’s dismissal in the fourth over, courtesy of Will O’Rourke, set Pakistan back. The team was tasked with chasing a formidable target of 321 runs, fueled by Tom Latham’s unbeaten 118 off 104 balls, Will Young’s 107 off 113 balls, and Glenn Phillips’ quickfire 61 off 39 balls.

In a stunning display of skill and determination, Young’s impressive innings came to an end when he fell to Naseem Shah in the 38th over. This marked the conclusion of a remarkable performance by the opener, who was filling in for the injured Rachin Ravindra in the first match of the Champions Trophy against Pakistan. Young’s century, scored in just 113 balls, showcased his talent and ability on the field. His partnership with Tom Latham yielded 118 runs in 126 balls, with Latham also achieving a half-century for the second consecutive time in ODIs.

Despite a shaky start for New Zealand, Young’s resilient play and strong partnership with Latham seemed to leave Pakistan struggling to find a way to break through. Latham, nearing his own half-century, further solidified New Zealand’s position in the match. Young’s performance highlighted his value as an opener for New Zealand, stepping up in place of the injured Ravindra.

The match began with a back-and-forth exchange of wickets, as New Zealand faced challenges early on. Despite a quick start, they encountered setbacks in the seventh and eighth overs, losing key players to the skilled bowling of Abrar Ahmed and Naseem Shah. Mohammad Rizwan’s decision to chase after winning the toss put the pressure on the Kiwis to set a competitive target in Karachi. Although Haris Rauf was deemed fit to play, Ravindra’s absence was felt. Fakhar Zaman’s brief injury scare did not hinder his return to the field, demonstrating his resilience and commitment to the game.