New Zealand defeat Pakistan by 60 runs in Champions Trophy opener
Karachi: Pakistan suffered a 60-run defeat against New Zealand in the opening match of the Champions Trophy on Wednesday, falling short in their chase of a 320-run target despite a valiant effort from captain Babar Azam and Khushdil Shah. The victory extended New Zealand’s unbeaten streak against Pakistan in the tournament, marking their fourth consecutive win in Champions Trophy encounters.
Young and Latham lead New Zealand to 320/5
Winning the toss, Pakistan opted to field and made early inroads, reducing New Zealand to 73/3. However, Will Young and Tom Latham steadied the innings with brilliant centuries. Young scored 107 off 113 balls, becoming the first batter to notch a century in the 2025 edition of the tournament. He built a crucial 118-run partnership with Latham before being dismissed by Naseem Shah.
Latham anchored the innings with an unbeaten 115 off 103 balls, smashing 10 fours and three sixes. Glenn Phillips provided late acceleration with a rapid 61 off 39 deliveries, propelling New Zealand to a formidable total of 320/5 in their 50 overs.
Pakistan’s bowlers struggle after early success
Pakistan’s bowlers began well but failed to sustain pressure in the latter stages. Naseem Shah claimed 2/63 in 10 overs, while leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed was the most economical with 1/47. Shaheen Afridi went wicketless, conceding 68 runs, while Haris Rauf picked up two wickets but was expensive, giving away 83 runs in his spell.
Babar and Khushdil fight back, but Pakistan falls short
Chasing 320, Pakistan lost wickets at regular intervals despite a determined effort from skipper Babar Azam and Khushdil Shah. Babar top-scored with 64 off 90 balls, while Khushdil played a counter-attacking knock of 69 off 49 balls. However, the lack of contributions from other batters proved costly as Pakistan was bowled out well short of the target, handing New Zealand a comfortable 60-run victory.
With this win, New Zealand have started their Champions Trophy campaign on a strong note, while Pakistan will look to bounce back in their next fixture.