New Zealand enters the contest with high morale after securing victories in their last two encounters against Pakistan
19 February, 2025
PHOTO: AFP
The wait is finally over, and the stage is set for a thrilling showdown as Pakistan takes on New Zealand in the opening match of the Champions Trophy. Both teams have completed their preparations, with players ready to give their best in pursuit of the coveted title.
New Zealand enters the contest with high morale after securing victories in their last two encounters against Pakistan. However, the home team is determined to settle the score on the grand stage. In Pakistan’s batting lineup, all eyes will be on captain Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman, who are expected to lead the charge. Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha are also key players, with hopes pinned on their contributions. On the bowling front, Pakistan’s attack will have to counter the threat of a high-scoring game. Shaheen Afridi remains the spearhead, while Haris Rauf has regained fitness and could be included in the playing XI. Additionally, Naseem Shah and Abrar Ahmed are eager to make an impact.
On the other hand, New Zealand boasts a formidable squad led by star batsman Kane Williamson. Their lineup includes several match-winners, making them a formidable challenge for the hosts. The pitch at Karachi’s National Stadium is expected to favor the batters, setting the stage for a high-scoring contest.
Pakistan is hosting an ICC event after 29 years and is fully prepared for the occasion. The country’s three major stadiums have undergone extensive upgrades to meet international standards. Now, the national team faces the dual challenge of defending the Champions Trophy title while also meeting the high expectations of home fans.
While Pakistan has performed well in overseas ODI matches recently, its performance at home has been inconsistent. In a triangular series held earlier, the team disappointed against South Africa but delivered a record chase, thanks to Rizwan and Salman’s outstanding batting. However, Pakistan lost all three of its matches against New Zealand, including the final.
A major concern for Pakistan has been its unsettled opening pair. Babar Azam was tasked with opening alongside Fakhar Zaman but could only manage 62 runs across three matches. Despite this, captain Mohammad Rizwan has confirmed that Babar will continue as an opener in the Champions Trophy. Fakhar’s overall performance has been better, and the team is banking on a strong partnership between the two to post big scores.
Pakistan’s middle order remains a point of concern. Saud Shakeel replaced Kamran Ghulam after the latter’s failure in the first match, but he too struggled. Tayyab Tahir’s performance has been average, leaving the team reliant on Rizwan and Salman to anchor the innings.
The all-rounders, Faheem Ashraf and Khushdil Shah, have failed to deliver in both batting and bowling, exposing a weak link in the squad. Pakistan’s bowling unit also struggled in the triangular series, especially in the death overs, where even Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah were taken apart by opposition batters. Specialist spinner Abrar Ahmed has yet to prove his effectiveness, and part-time slow bowlers have only filled gaps without contributing significantly.
For Pakistan to succeed, the entire bowling unit must step up against an in-form New Zealand side. The Kiwis, riding high on recent wins, have strong batting firepower. Kane Williamson remains their key player, while Rachin Ravindra has recovered from an injury sustained in the first match and is back in full training. Meanwhile, Devon Conway impressed in his two appearances, scoring 97 and 48 runs, respectively. New Zealand also boasts powerful hitters and quality spinners, making them a formidable opponent.
Excitement is at its peak among fans, with all tickets for the match sold out days in advance. A full house is expected at the National Stadium on Wednesday as cricket enthusiasts gear up for what promises to be an electrifying start to the Champions Trophy.
