(New Zealand crushed Pakistan by 9 wickets in their 2025 clash. Highlights, stats, and expert insights on the Kiwis’ commanding performance.)

In a highly anticipated Champions Trophy 2025 opener, New Zealand showcased their dominance with a 60-run victory over Pakistan at the National Stadium, Karachi. Riding on *stellar centuries from Tom Latham (118) and Will Young (107)**, the Blackcaps posted an imposing 320/5 in 50 overs. Despite a gritty 69-run effort from Khushdil Shah, Pakistan failed to chase the target and folded for 260 in 47.2 overs.

New Zealand’s Commanding Batting Performance

Opting to bat first after losing the toss, New Zealand encountered early hiccups but found their footing through a crucial 118-run fourth-wicket stand between Latham and Young. The duo neutralized Pakistan’s bowling attack, ensuring a strong finish. Glenn Phillips (61 off 39) provided the final flourish with an explosive cameo, smashing three boundaries and four sixes.

Key Highlights from New Zealand’s Innings:

• Tom Latham: 118* off 104 balls (11 fours)
• Will Young: 107 off 113 balls (9 fours, 1 six)
• Glenn Phillips: 61 off 39 balls (3 fours, 4 sixes)
• Pakistan’s best bowlers: Naseem Shah (2/63), Haris Rauf (1/55)

New Zealand’s disciplined approach and calculated aggression propelled them to a challenging total of 320/5, putting Pakistan under immense pressure.

Pakistan’s Struggles with the Bat

Chasing 321, Pakistan had a sluggish start, managing just 22 runs in the first powerplay while losing Saud Shakeel early. Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan struggled to rotate the strike, which allowed New Zealand’s bowlers to tighten the noose. Fakhar Zaman, playing with a minor injury, fought hard but managed only 24 off 41 balls.

The innings saw some brief resistance from Salman Agha (42 off 28) and Khushdil Shah (69 off 49), but their efforts came too late. Babar Azam’s slow-paced 64 off 90 balls ended up putting pressure on the middle order, and Pakistan ultimately crumbled, all out for 260 in 47.2 overs.

Key Highlights from Pakistan’s Innings:

• Babar Azam: 64 off 90 balls (6 fours)
• Khushdil Shah: 69 off 49 balls (7 fours, 2 sixes)
• Salman Agha: 42 off 28 balls (5 fours, 1 six)
• New Zealand’s best bowlers: Mitchell Santner (3/47), William O’Rourke (3/50)

Pakistan’s lack of intent in the powerplay and a sluggish middle order proved costly, while New Zealand’s sharp fielding and disciplined bowling ensured a comfortable victory.

Turning Points of the Match

🔥 Latham & Young’s Century Partnership: Rescued New Zealand after an early collapse, setting up a winning total.
🔥 Glenn Phillips’ Late Blitz: His aggressive knock pushed NZ’s score beyond 300.
🔥 Pakistan’s Powerplay Struggles: Scoring only 22/2 in 10 overs left the team chasing the game.
🔥 New Zealand’s Clinical Bowling: Tight spells from Santner and O’Rourke strangled Pakistan’s chase.

What’s Next?

With this commanding victory, New Zealand will look to carry their momentum forward, while Pakistan needs to regroup before their next fixture. Babar Azam and co. must reassess their batting approach, especially in pressure chases.

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FAQs

1. Who won the New Zealand vs Pakistan match in Champions Trophy 2025?

New Zealand defeated Pakistan by 60 runs, securing a strong start in the tournament.

2. Who were the top scorers?

• New Zealand: Tom Latham (118*), Will Young (107), Glenn Phillips (61).
• Pakistan: Khushdil Shah (69), Babar Azam (64), Salman Agha (42).

3. How did Pakistan lose the match?

A slow start, lack of partnerships, and disciplined New Zealand bowling led to their downfall.

4. What was the turning point of the match?

The 118-run partnership between Latham and Young gave New Zealand a match-winning edge.

5. Where can I watch the highlights?

You can watch the official highlights on ICC’s website and leading sports networks like Star Sports & ESPN.

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ICC Match Report: Pakistan vs New Zealand – Champions Trophy 2025

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