Karachi, February 19, 2025 – New Zealand delivered a commanding performance to crush Pakistan in the opening One-Day International (ODI) of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 at Karachi on Wednesday.
The Kiwis outplayed their opponents in all aspects of the game, setting an imposing tone for the tournament.
After losing the toss, New Zealand showcased their batting prowess, posting a mammoth total of 321 runs in their allotted 50 overs. The foundation was laid by Will Young and Tom Latham, both of whom smashed centuries. Their composed and calculated innings were complemented by Glenn Phillips’ explosive late flourish, which propelled New Zealand beyond the 300-run mark. Despite a few breakthroughs by Pakistan’s bowlers—Abrar Ahmed and Naseem Shah grabbing two wickets each—the visitors’ relentless charge ensured a formidable target.
In response, Pakistan never looked in control of the chase. Missing the experienced Fakhar Zaman at the top due to injury, Pakistan’s openers struggled to find momentum, managing only 22 runs for the loss of two wickets in the Powerplay. While Babar Azam’s half-century provided some resistance, the required run rate kept climbing. Mohammad Rizwan fell to a spectacular catch by Glenn Phillips, while Salman Agha’s cameo and Khushdil Shah’s fighting fifty gave brief hope. However, New Zealand’s disciplined bowling attack, spearheaded by Mitchell Santner and Will O’Rourke, ensured Pakistan were bundled out for 260 in 47.2 overs, falling 61 runs short.
New Zealand’s bowling unit was in top form. The spin trio of Santner, Michael Bracewell, and Glenn Phillips stifled the Pakistani batters, while the pacers, Matt Henry and Will O’Rourke, made early inroads. Henry and O’Rourke claimed three wickets each, ensuring Pakistan never found a rhythm. Nathan Smith also contributed, sealing an all-round masterclass from New Zealand.
Post-Match Reactions
Victorious New Zealand skipper Mitchell Santner expressed satisfaction with his team’s batting effort. He credited Young and Latham for their centuries and praised the bowlers for their disciplined attack. He acknowledged that early breakthroughs, especially the dismissals of Babar and Rizwan, were crucial in dictating the game.
Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan admitted his team struggled to contain New Zealand in the death overs, allowing them to post a bigger total than expected. He highlighted Fakhar Zaman’s injury as a setback and lamented Pakistan’s inability to capitalize on key moments in the game.
Player of the Match Tom Latham reflected on New Zealand’s familiarity with the conditions, attributing their success to prior experience from the Tri-series. He lauded the team’s ability to accelerate in the latter overs and credited the spinners for taking advantage of the dry pitch.
New Zealand have now defeated Pakistan three times in 10 days on their home turf, a remarkable feat that cements them as early favorites in the tournament. Their dominant display has set a high benchmark, and they will look to maintain this momentum moving forward.