Pakistan’s return as hosts for a major ICC event after nearly three decades got off to a disappointing start as they suffered a 60-run defeat to New Zealand in the Champions Trophy opener at the National Stadium. Fine centuries from *Will Young (107) and Tom Latham (118)**, followed by a disciplined bowling performance, powered the Kiwis to victory, maintaining their unbeaten record against Pakistan in the tournament’s history.
Set a challenging target of 321, Pakistan struggled to build momentum and were bowled out for 260 in 46.4 overs. Despite a fighting 69 off 49 balls from Khushdil Shah and a patient 64 from Babar Azam, the hosts fell short as New Zealand’s bowlers dominated the chase.
Batting first after Pakistan opted to bowl, New Zealand found themselves in early trouble at 73/3 in 16 overs, thanks to Abrar Ahmed’s early breakthroughs. However, Young and Latham took control, stitching a 118-run partnership for the fourth wicket. Latham then teamed up with Glenn Phillips (61 off 39 balls) for a 125-run stand, ensuring the Kiwis finished strong at 320/6.
Young’s innings of 107 off 113 balls included 12 boundaries and a six, while Latham remained unbeaten on 118 off 104 deliveries, striking 10 fours.
Pakistan’s chase never gathered steam, with wickets falling at regular intervals. The top order faltered early, and at 128/5 in 31 overs, the defending champions were already in deep trouble. Babar Azam’s 64 off 90 balls lacked fluency, while Fakhar Zaman (24 off 41) and Mohammad Rizwan (3) failed to make an impact.
The innings saw a brief resurgence when Khushdil Shah (69 off 49, 10 fours, 1 six) and Salman Agha (42 off 28, 6 fours, 1 six) counterattacked, but the lower order couldn’t sustain the momentum.
For New Zealand, William O’Rourke (3/47), Mitchell Santner (3/66), and Matt Henry (2/25) delivered crucial blows to derail Pakistan’s hopes.
The Champions Trophy opener was preceded by a grand ceremony, marking Pakistan’s first ICC event since 1996. The occasion was celebrated with an aerobatic display by the Pakistan Air Force, but the hosts couldn’t carry the celebrations onto the field.
With this win, New Zealand continues their dominance over Pakistan in Champions Trophy history, while the defending champions will need to regroup quickly to stay in contention.