The match is set to start at 2:00 PM PST
19 February, 2025
PHOTO: AP
Pakistan will begin their Champions Trophy title defense against New Zealand today in Karachi. The hosts, who won the tournament in 2017, are facing a tough challenge as they recently lost to the Kiwis twice in a tri-series. The match will be played at National Bank Stadium in Karachi. The match is set to start at 2:00 PM PST.
ODI cricket has not been played much in recent years, making this tournament an exciting event for fans. The Champions Trophy has not been held since 2017, and many had almost forgotten about it. However, as the tournament returns, Pakistan, playing at home, will try to make the most of it.
New Zealand is a familiar opponent for Pakistan. No other team has played more ODIs in Pakistan since 2019 than the Black Caps. The two sides faced off in the final of a tri-series just a few days ago, where New Zealand defeated Pakistan in Karachi. This makes the opening game even more interesting, as both teams will look to start their campaign with a win.
Pakistan’s biggest concern is Babar Azam’s form. He has not scored an ODI century in his last 21 innings, which is unusual for a player of his caliber. Even though he has only had two single-digit scores in this period, Pakistan fans are eager to see him play a big knock, especially in a home tournament. This time, Babar will be opening the batting instead of playing at No. 3, and a strong performance could boost Pakistan’s confidence.
New Zealand’s spinners were highly effective in the recent tri-series, finishing with an impressive combined economy rate of 4.41. Mitchell Santner and Michael Bracewell, who took five wickets each, will be crucial for New Zealand again. Their ability to control the game in the middle overs makes them one of the most dangerous spin duos in the tournament.
Pakistan received a boost ahead of the match, with Haris Rauf recovering from his injury. He had missed the tri-series after suffering a side strain, but captain Mohammad Rizwan confirmed that he is fit to play. This means Pakistan can field a full-strength team.
Meanwhile, New Zealand have injury concerns. Fast bowlers Lockie Ferguson and Ben Sears are out of the tournament. There is also uncertainty over Rachin Ravindra, who was hit on the head while fielding in the tri-series. Though he has been training, the team will decide on his availability after their final practice session. If he does not play, Will Young will open with Devon Conway. Kyle Jamieson, who was called in as a replacement for Ferguson, will not arrive in Karachi in time for the first game.
Pitch and Weather Conditions
Karachi’s pitch has produced contrasting results in recent games. In the tri-series, South Africa scored 352 on this ground, which was the highest-ever total at the venue. But just two days later, Pakistan were bowled out for 242. Fast bowlers have struggled here in ODIs, averaging 33.67 with an economy rate of 6.02. However, spinners have found slightly better success, with an economy rate of 5.11.
The weather will be warm, with temperatures expected to reach 29°C. There is no chance of rain, ensuring a full game.
Squads:
Pakistan: Mohammad Rizwan (c & wk), Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam, Salman Agha, Tayyab Tahir, Khushdil Shah, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Usman Khan, Saud Shakeel
New Zealand: Tom Latham (wk), Mitchell Santner (c), Will Young, Devon Conway, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Nathan Smith, Matt Henry, William ORourke, Jacob Duffy, Kyle Jamieson, Mark Chapman, Rachin Ravindra
As Pakistan and New Zealand get ready to kick off the Champions Trophy, all eyes will be on Babar Azam’s form and whether the hosts can overcome their recent losses to the Kiwis.
