Champions Trophy 2025 Returns: Pakistan to Face New Zealand in High-Voltage Opener

The much-awaited ICC Champions Trophy is back after seven years, with defending champions Pakistan taking on a formidable New Zealand side in the tournament opener in Karachi.

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Karachi, February 19:

The ICC Champions Trophy is set to make a grand comeback after more than seven years, with an electrifying clash between Pakistan and New Zealand marking the start of the tournament at a revamped Karachi Stadium on Wednesday.

ODI cricket has faced stiff competition for relevance in recent years, with T20 cricket dominating global attention. However, the return of the Champions Trophy aims to reignite excitement for the 50-over format. The last edition in 2017 saw Pakistan lifting their maiden Champions Trophy after a historic 180-run victory over arch-rivals India.

While Pakistan will look to defend their crown, they face a stiff challenge from a familiar opponent. New Zealand has been one of the most successful touring teams in Pakistan, having played 11 ODIs in the country since 2019—more than any other team. Their recent success over Pakistan, including a triumph in the ODI tri-nation final just five days ago in Karachi, gives them an added edge.

Head-to-Head: Pakistan vs New Zealand in Champions Trophy

Historically, New Zealand holds the upper hand against Pakistan in the Champions Trophy. The two sides have met three times in the tournament’s history (2000, 2006, 2009), with the Blackcaps emerging victorious on all occasions.

In their last 11 ODI meetings, Pakistan and New Zealand have been evenly matched, with the Men in Green winning six encounters while the Kiwis have won five. However, in their past four meetings, New Zealand has emerged victorious in three, making them a formidable opponent for the hosts.

Key Players to Watch

• Pakistan’s Concerns: One of the biggest concerns for Pakistan is the form of star batter Babar Azam. The prolific right-hander has not scored a century in his last 21 ODI innings. His recent promotion to the top order could help him make the most of the powerplay conditions and get back into form.
• New Zealand’s Spin Threat: Pakistan will also be wary of New Zealand’s spin duo of captain Mitchell Santner and Michael Bracewell. The pair picked up five wickets at an impressive economy rate of 4.41 during the recent ODI tri-series, significantly lower than Pakistan’s spinners (5.67) and South Africa’s (5.94).

Pakistan vs New Zealand Squads

Pakistan:

Mohammad Rizwan (c), Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir, Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, Salman Ali Agha, Usman Khan, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi.

New Zealand:

Mitchell Santner (c), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Ben Sears, Nathan Smith, Kane Williamson, Will Young.

With both teams gearing up for an intense showdown, all eyes will be on Karachi as the Champions Trophy 2025 officially kicks off. Will Pakistan start their title defense on a high note, or will New Zealand continue their dominance? Fans are in for a thrilling encounter!

The Champions Trophy 2025 opener between Pakistan and New Zealand is set to take place at the National Stadium in Karachi on Wednesday, February 19.

Match Timing:

• Local Time (Pakistan Standard Time – PKT): 2:30 PM
• India (IST): 3:00 PM
• New Zealand (NZDT): 10:30 PM
• UK (GMT): 9:30 AM
• USA (EST): 4:30 AM

The match will be broadcast live on major sports networks and available for streaming on official ICC platforms.