The Champions Trophy 2025 kicked off in thrilling fashion as New Zealand dominated defending champions Pakistan with a 60-run victory in Karachi. Tom Latham and Will Young’s stellar centuries powered the Kiwis to a formidable total of 320/5, while Pakistan faltered in their chase, getting bowled out for 260. This match set the tone for an exciting tournament, showcasing New Zealand’s batting strength and Pakistan’s struggle under pressure.
PAK vs NZ LIVE SCORE, Champions Trophy 2025: Tom Latham, Will Young Power New Zealand to 60-Run Opening Win in Karachi
New Zealand delivered a clinical performance against Pakistan in the opening match of the Champions Trophy 2025. The Black Caps put up a daunting total of 320/5, thanks to centuries from *Will Young (107) and Tom Latham (118)**, alongside a blistering 61 off 39 balls by Glenn Phillips. Pakistan, despite strong knocks from Babar Azam (64) and Khushdil Shah (69), fell short, bowled out for 260. Will O’Rourke’s 3/47 sealed the game for New Zealand.
Key Moments from PAK vs NZ, Champions Trophy 2025
Will Young’s Historic Century
- Will Young became the first batter to score a century in the Champions Trophy 2025.
- His 107 off 112 deliveries set the foundation for New Zealand’s big total.
Tom Latham’s 8th ODI Century
- Tom Latham played a captain’s knock, scoring an unbeaten 118.
- His century, alongside Young’s, marked the first instance of two New Zealand batters scoring hundreds in the same Champions Trophy innings.
Glenn Phillips’ Explosive Fifty
- Phillips smashed 61 runs off just 39 balls, accelerating the run rate.
- His innings included five sixes and four boundaries.
Will O’Rourke’s Game-Changing Spell
- The Kiwi bowler picked up 3/47, dismantling Pakistan’s middle order.
- His crucial wickets ensured Pakistan never got ahead in the chase.
Babar Azam’s Lone Resistance
- Pakistan’s skipper played a solid innings, scoring 64 runs off 72 balls.
- However, he lacked support from other top-order batters.
Khushdil Shah’s Fightback
- Khushdil Shah played a counter-attacking 69 off 58 balls.
- Despite his efforts, Pakistan’s tailenders couldn’t take them over the line.
Pakistan vs New Zealand Champions Trophy 2025 Scorecard
| Team | Score | Top Scorer | Best Bowler |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Zealand | 320/5 (50 overs) | Tom Latham – 118* | Will O’Rourke – 3/47 |
| Pakistan | 260 all out (46.3 overs) | Khushdil Shah – 69 | Rachin Ravindra – 2/38 |
New Zealand’s Winning Strategy
1. Dominating the Powerplay
- The Kiwis started strong, scoring 68/1 in the first 10 overs.
- Will Young’s aggression put Pakistan’s bowlers on the backfoot.
2. Solid Middle-Order Partnerships
- Latham and Young built a crucial 176-run partnership.
- Their consistency ensured New Zealand reached a match-winning total.
3. Pakistan’s Bowling Struggles
- Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah went for above 6 runs per over.
- Shadab Khan’s spin couldn’t contain the run flow in the middle overs.
4. New Zealand’s Bowling Execution
- The Black Caps bowled disciplined lines, restricting Pakistan’s chase.
- Tim Southee and Trent Boult provided crucial early breakthroughs.
FAQs
1. Who won the opening match of the Champions Trophy 2025?
New Zealand defeated Pakistan by 60 runs in Karachi.
2. Who was the top scorer for New Zealand?
Tom Latham remained unbeaten on 118 off 129 balls.
3. What was Pakistan’s total in the chase?
Pakistan was bowled out for 260 in 46.3 overs.
4. Who took the most wickets for New Zealand?
Will O’Rourke claimed 3 wickets for 47 runs.
5. What was the biggest partnership in the match?
Latham and Young stitched together a 176-run stand.
6. What’s next for Pakistan in the Champions Trophy 2025?
Pakistan will face India in their next group-stage match, a high-stakes encounter.
Conclusion
The Champions Trophy 2025 kicked off with a thrilling contest as New Zealand outclassed Pakistan by 60 runs. With stellar performances from Tom Latham, Will Young, and Glenn Phillips, the Kiwis sent a strong message to other teams. Pakistan, despite notable efforts from Babar Azam and Khushdil Shah, couldn’t keep up with New Zealand’s dominance. As the tournament progresses, both teams will look to fine-tune their strategies and make a strong push for the title.
Stay tuned for more updates, live scores, and insights from the Champions Trophy 2025!
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