Wed Feb 19 07:26:35 UTC 2025: ## Pakistan Begins Champions Trophy Defence Against New Zealand
**Karachi, Pakistan:** After a 29-year absence, the ICC Champions Trophy returns to Pakistan, and the home side, led by Mohammad Rizwan, are under pressure to defend their 2017 title. While Pakistan enjoys home advantage, the weight of expectation from their passionate fans will be significant.
Pakistan’s preparations included a tri-series against South Africa and New Zealand, which ended in a final loss to the Kiwis. Their opening match against New Zealand in Karachi’s National Stadium is crucial to set the tone for their campaign.
New Zealand, captained by Mitchell Santner, aims to upset the odds. Grouped with India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan in Group A, they seek their second Champions Trophy title since 2000. Despite this, they have consistently been a strong contender in recent ICC tournaments.
Pakistan holds a significant advantage in the head-to-head record against New Zealand in ODIs (61 wins to New Zealand’s 53, with 4 draws). However, New Zealand has dominated their Champions Trophy encounters, winning all three previous meetings (2000, 2006, and 2009).
The National Cricket Stadium in Karachi is known for its high-scoring matches, with an average first-innings score of 289. While the pitch is conducive to big scores, the toss isn’t expected to be a major factor, as the last eight matches played there saw an even split of wins for teams batting and bowling first.
The match between Pakistan and New Zealand begins at 2:30 PM local time. Both teams have announced potential playing XIs, with notable players like Babar Azam for Pakistan and Kane Williamson for New Zealand expected to play key roles. The tournament promises to be a thrilling spectacle.
First Piper 