Thu Feb 20 05:58:56 UTC 2025: ## New Zealand Thrashes Pakistan by 60 Runs in Champions Trophy Opener
**Karachi, Pakistan** – New Zealand dominated Pakistan in the opening match of the Champions Trophy 2025, securing a convincing 60-run victory at the National Stadium in Karachi on Wednesday. Winning the toss, Pakistan elected to field, a decision they would later regret.
New Zealand posted a challenging 320/5 in their allotted 50 overs, fueled by centuries from openers Will Young (107) and Tom Latham (118). Young reached his century off 107 balls, and Latham’s came off 104 balls. Glen Phillips also contributed a quick-fire 61 off 39 balls.
In response, Pakistan’s chase never truly gained momentum. Despite half-centuries from Babar Azam (64 off 90) and Khushdil Shah (69 off 49), their innings was hampered by a slow start and regular wickets. Fakhar Zaman, injured in the first over while fielding, struggled to 24 runs before being dismissed. Pakistan were eventually bowled out for 260 in 47.2 overs.
William O’Rourke and Mitchell Santner led the New Zealand bowling attack, each claiming three wickets. Matt Henry took two wickets while Michael Bracewell and Nathan Smith each picked up one. For Pakistan, Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf claimed two wickets each, with Abrar Ahmed taking one.
The match saw two centuries and several impressive individual performances but ultimately highlighted New Zealand’s superior batting and bowling prowess in a commanding win to kick off the Champions Trophy.
First Piper 