Statement win for New Zealand in Champions Trophy 2025 opener

Friday, 21 February 2025 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Mitchell Santner-led side are off to a sizzling start in the Champions Trophy 2025, beating hosts Pakistan with a sensational overall performance, powered by centuries from Will Young and Tom Latham.

Chasing a daunting target of 321, the host nation lost opener Saud Shakeel in the fourth over of the chase, and from then on the Mohammad Rizwan-led never really looked well settled in the chase.

After the dismissal of Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan tried to rebuild the innings with Babar Azam, but an unbelievable catch from Glenn Phillips at backward point saw the Pakistan skipper walk back to the dugout for just three runs.

New Zealand’s bowlers showed resilience throughout the powerplay, leaving Pakistan tottering at 22/2 at the end of the first 10 overs, paving the way for a solid win.

Earlier, with New Zealand’s back against the wall after early wickets from Pakistan, opener Will Young and wicketkeeper-batter Tom Latham notched centuries as the Black Caps posted a daunting total of 320/5 in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 opener.

The Kiwis were toiling at 73/3 when Young combined alongside Latham to add 118 runs for the fourth wicket.