Wed Feb 19 19:59:31 UTC 2025: ## Pakistan Stumbles in Champions Trophy Opener, Losing to New Zealand by 60 Runs

**Karachi, Pakistan –** Defending champions Pakistan suffered a disappointing 60-run defeat against New Zealand in their opening match of the Champions Trophy 2025 in Karachi on Wednesday. Chasing a challenging 321-run target, Pakistan’s batting performance was widely criticized for its slow pace and conservative approach.

The Pakistani top order struggled significantly. After losing early wickets, Babar Azam, despite eventually reaching a 90-ball 64, played a painfully slow innings, drawing comparisons to the tortoise in the classic fable from Ravichandran Ashwin. His slow knock, along with sluggish performances from captain Mohammad Rizwan and Saud Shakeel, hampered Pakistan’s progress throughout the innings. Only Salman Agha provided a spark of dynamism, scoring a quick-fire 42 off 28 balls.

Pakistan’s slow start saw them reach only 22/2 after 10 overs and 66/2 after 20 overs. While the run rate improved after Babar’s dismissal, the damage had already been done. The team eventually crumbled to 260 all out in 47.2 overs.

Will O’Rourke (3/47) and Mitchell Santner (3/66) were the pick of the New Zealand bowlers, while Matt Henry also claimed two wickets. The loss marks New Zealand’s fourth victory against Pakistan in the Champions Trophy, and extends their unbeaten record against the defending champions.

Pakistan now faces a crucial match against arch-rivals India, which is essentially a must-win encounter if they are to progress in the tournament. The team’s slow batting and inability to chase down a sizeable total raise serious concerns about their chances of defending their title.

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