Champions Trophy 2025: Pakistan vs New Zealand: Pakistan Bowlers Keep New Zealand in Check

Abrar Ahmed, Naseem Shah Strike Early as New Zealand Struggles to Build Momentum

February 19, 2025: Karachi: The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 kicked off with an intense clash between Pakistan and New Zealand at the National Stadium, Karachi. Pakistan’s bowlers, led by Abrar Ahmed and Naseem Shah, have put New Zealand under pressure with early breakthroughs.

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After winning the toss, Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan opted to bowl first, a decision that quickly paid off. Abrar Ahmed drew first blood, dismissing Devon Conway (10) in the 8th over. Shortly after, Naseem Shah sent Kane Williamson back for just 1, giving Pakistan early control of the game.

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Score Update (14.1 Overs):

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🟢 New Zealand – 68/2
🏏 Will Young – 46* (49)
🏏 Daryl Mitchell – 8* (18)
⚡ Abrar Ahmed – 1/12 (4)
⚡ Haris Rauf – 0/6 (0.1)

Key Moments So Far:

✅ First Wicket: Abrar Ahmed bamboozled Devon Conway (10) with spin, sending his off-stump flying. (NZ 39/1, 7.3 overs)
✅ Second Wicket: Naseem Shah’s perfect outswinger found the edge of Kane Williamson (1), caught by Mohammad Rizwan. (NZ 40/2, 8.1 overs)
✅ Will Young’s Resilience: The opener has played a steady knock, hitting boundaries at crucial moments, including a four off Abrar Ahmed’s googly in the 12th over.
✅ Injury Blow for Pakistan: Fakhar Zaman suffered an injury early in the game while chasing a ball in the outfield, forcing him off the field.

What’s Next?

New Zealand needs a strong partnership between Will Young and Daryl Mitchell to stabilize their innings, while Pakistan will look to capitalize on early breakthroughs with Haris Rauf and Shaheen Afridi in attack.

📅 Next Update: Stay tuned for more live action and key moments from the Pakistan vs New Zealand Champions Trophy 2025 opener!

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