Wed Feb 19 07:51:56 UTC 2025: ## ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Kicks Off with Pakistan-New Zealand Clash

**Karachi, Pakistan:** The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 began today with a highly anticipated match between Pakistan and New Zealand at the Karachi Stadium. This marks Pakistan’s first hosting of an ICC event since 1996, after an eight-year hiatus for the Champions Trophy itself. The match, starting at 2:30 PM local time (toss at 2:00 PM), pits two cricketing giants against each other, each with a history of Champions Trophy success – Pakistan winning in 2017 and New Zealand in 2000.

Pakistan and New Zealand have a rich history, with 118 ODIs played between them resulting in 61 wins for Pakistan and 53 for New Zealand (three matches ending in ties). This encounter marks their fourth Champions Trophy meeting, with Pakistan yet to register a win against the Kiwis in previous tournaments (2000, 2006, and 2009).

The match is being broadcast on Star Sports Network and Sports 18 Network, with live streaming available on Jio Hotstar. Favorable weather conditions are expected in Karachi, with temperatures around 29°C during the day and dropping to 24°C at night.

Notable absentees for New Zealand include injured players, Blair Tickner and Lockie Ferguson, who have been replaced by Jacob Duffy and Kyle Jamieson. Interestingly, due to security concerns, the Indian team will play their matches in Dubai. Pakistan’s squad includes key players like Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi, while New Zealand will rely on the experience of Kane Williamson and Devon Conway. The tournament also features other prominent teams like Australia, South Africa, and India, divided into two groups.

The opening match promises an exciting start to the tournament, with both teams eager to set the tone for their campaign.

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