Cricket Highlights, February 19: ICC Champions Trophy 2025 (1st Match) – NZ vs PAK

NZ vs PAK (1st Match) – Highlights

In this article, we will discuss the thrilling encounter between New Zealand and Pakistan or NZ vs PAK in the 1st match of Group A in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, held in Karachi on February 19. New Zealand put up a commanding total of 320/5, showcasing their batting depth and aggressive stroke play. In response, Pakistan fought hard but fell short, getting bowled out for 260 in 47.2 overs, handing New Zealand a convincing 60-run victory. 

New Zealand’s innings got off to a shaky start as Devon Conway (10) and Kane Williamson (1) fell early to Naseem Shah. Daryl Mitchell’s slow 10 off 24 balls only added to their concerns, leaving the Black Caps at 73/3 in the 17th over. However, Will Young anchored the innings brilliantly, scoring a well-paced 107 off 113 balls, striking 12 boundaries and a six. 

His partnership with Tom Latham proved to be the backbone of New Zealand’s innings. Latham, who remained unbeaten on 118 off 104 balls, played a masterclass innings filled with elegant strokes, finding the fence 10 times and clearing it thrice. Glenn Phillips provided the late acceleration, smashing 61 off just 39 balls with three fours and four sixes. Their efforts propelled New Zealand to a strong 320/5 in 50 overs.

Pakistan’s bowling attack had a hit-and-miss outing. Naseem Shah (2/63) was the best of the pacers, getting rid of Imam early but then conceding runs. Haris Rauf (2/83) was expensive while Abrar Ahmed (1/47) was economical. The ever-green Shaheen Shah Afridi, moreover, bowled 10 overs without getting a wicket and conceding 68 runs. Hosts were unable to rein in New Zealand’s middle-order assault, which they paid dearly for.

Chasing 321, Pakistan’s innings never quite took off. Opener Saud Shakeel fell cheaply for 6, followed by skipper Mohammad Rizwan (3), who was dismissed by Will O’Rourke. Fakhar Zaman tried to stabilize the innings with 24 off 41 balls but was bowled by Michael Bracewell. 

Babar Azam, who scored 64 off 90 balls, held the innings together but struggled to up the tempo. Salman Agha gave the chase a little life with a quick 42 off 28 balls, with six fours and a six. But every now and then, wickets kept falling.

The most entertaining knock for Pakistan came from Khushdil Shah, who smashed a blazing 69 off 49 balls, hitting 10 boundaries and a six. His aggressive batting gave Pakistan a glimmer of hope, but his dismissal in the 44th over effectively ended their chances. 

Haris Rauf (19 off 10) struck some late blows, but Matt Henry (2/25) cleaned up the tail, sealing the victory for New Zealand. O’Rourke (3/47) and Santner (3/66) played key roles in dismantling Pakistan’s lineup.

New Zealand’s comprehensive win highlighted their batting strength and disciplined bowling, making them early favorites in the tournament. Pakistan, on the other hand, will need to reassess their approach to bounce back in their upcoming matches.

New Zealand vs Pakistan Scoreboard

New Zealand – 320/5 (50)

Pakistan – 260 (47.2/50)

Result – New Zealand won by 60 runs

Player of the Match – Tom Latham

NZ vs PAK Playing Eleven

New Zealand

Will Young, Devon Conway, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham(WK), Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner(C), Nathan Smith, Matt Henry, Will O’Rourke

Pakistan

Saud Shakeel, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan(WK)(C), Fakhar Zaman, Salman Agha, Tayyab Tahir, Khushdil Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed

Disclaimer: These match highlights reflect the author’s insights and analysis. Readers are encouraged to consider the points discussed and form their own conclusions.

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Abit Leo

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