Wed Feb 19 12:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Pakistan Face Steep Climb After New Zealand Post 320 in Karachi ODI
**KARACHI, PAKISTAN** – New Zealand posted a challenging 320/5 against Pakistan in the Champions Trophy 2025 opener in Karachi, leaving the hosts with a steep chase. Centuries from Tom Latham (118*) and Will Young (107), complemented by a rapid 61 from Glenn Phillips, formed the backbone of the Blackcaps’ impressive total.
Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan won the toss and elected to field, a decision that initially appeared justified as they reduced New Zealand to 73/3. However, a crucial 118-run partnership between Young and Latham swung the momentum decisively in New Zealand’s favour. Phillips’ late onslaught ensured New Zealand surpassed the 300-run mark. Naseem Shah was Pakistan’s most effective bowler, taking 2 wickets for 63 runs.
In reply, Pakistan’s chase got off to a disastrous start, losing two early wickets to find themselves struggling at 22/2 after the first 10 overs – their lowest ever powerplay total in a home ODI. Saud Shakeel was dismissed by William O’Rourke in the fourth over. Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman will need to mount a significant recovery if Pakistan are to avoid a heavy defeat. The match remains keenly contested.
First Piper 