New Zealand beats host Pakistan by 60 runs in Champions Trophy opener

New Zealand produced a clinical performance to defeat Pakistan by 60 runs in the opening game of the Champions Trophy in Karachi on Wednesday. A dominant batting display, powered by centuries from Tom Latham and Will Young, along with Glenn Phillips’ explosive fifty, helped the Blackcaps post a challenging total of 320 for 5 in 50 overs.

Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan won the toss and opted to bowl first, a decision that initially seemed to pay off as the hosts reduced New Zealand to 73 for 3. However, a game-changing 118-run stand between Young (107) and Latham (118 not out) put New Zealand back in control. Towards the end, Phillips’ quickfire 61 off 39 balls ensured they crossed the 300-run mark. Among Pakistan’s bowlers, Naseem Shah was the most effective, finishing with figures of 2 for 63.

Chasing 321, Pakistan got off to a disastrous start, managing just 22 for 2 in the first 10 overs. Their batting woes continued as Babar Azam’s slow-paced 64 off 90 balls put pressure on the middle order. Khushdil Shah played a valiant knock of 69 off 48 balls, while Salman Agha contributed 42, but their efforts weren’t enough to turn the game around.

New Zealand’s bowlers put up an impressive display, led by William O'Rourke and Mitchell Santner, who picked up three wickets each. The disciplined bowling attack restricted Pakistan to 260 all out in 48.2 overs, sealing a comfortable victory for the visitors.