Wed Feb 19 17:30:00 UTC 2025: ## New Zealand Thrashes Pakistan by 60 Runs in Champions Trophy Opener
**Karachi, Pakistan:** New Zealand secured a convincing 60-run victory over Pakistan in the opening match of the Champions Trophy on Wednesday. This marks New Zealand’s fourth consecutive win against Pakistan in the tournament, continuing a dominant head-to-head record.
Batting first, New Zealand posted a challenging 320/5, despite a shaky start that saw them lose three early wickets. Will Young anchored the innings with a masterful 107, while Tom Latham contributed a crucial unbeaten 118. Glenn Phillips added a quick-fire 61. Naseem Shah (2/56) and Haris Rauf (2/61) were the pick of the Pakistan bowlers.
Pakistan’s chase faltered from the outset, losing two early wickets with the score on just 22. While Babar Azam (64) and Khushdil Shah (69) offered resistance, consistent pressure from the New Zealand bowlers, led by three-wicket hauls from Mitchell Santner and William O’Rourke, proved too much to overcome. Pakistan were eventually bowled out for 260 in 47 overs.
This victory extends New Zealand’s unbeaten streak against Pakistan in Champions Trophy encounters, dating back to 2000. The Kiwis have now won all four matches played between the two teams in the tournament.
First Piper 