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The ICC Champions Trophy makes its much-anticipated return after seven years, with Karachi’s National Stadium set to host a thrilling opening clash between Pakistan and New Zealand. This tournament also marks Pakistan’s first major cricket event since the 1996 World Cup, adding even more excitement to the occasion.
New Zealand enters the competition as one of the teams to watch, having recently dominated Pakistan in the Tri-Nation Series, securing two victories over the hosts, including a convincing final win on Sunday. Meanwhile, Pakistan remains an unpredictable side, capable of spectacular performances but also prone to unexpected setbacks.
With some of the world’s best players in action, this promises to be an intense battle to kick off the tournament.
MATCH DETAILS
| Match | Pakistan vs New Zealand |
|---|---|
| Date | Wednesday, 14th February 2025 |
| Time | 2:00 PM (Local Time) |
| Venue | National Stadium, Karachi |
| Live Streaming | Official Broadcasters & Online Platforms |
TEAM PREVIEWS
Pakistan Preview
Pakistan may not be in top form, but they still boast a squad filled with world-class match-winners.
Babar Azam, despite struggling for consistency, remains one of the finest batters in ODIs, having surpassed 6000 career runs recently. His opening partner, Fakhar Zaman, is in far better form, striking the ball well and providing aggressive starts.
The middle order will rely on captain Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Agha, both of whom have contributed nearly 60% of the team’s runs in recent ODIs. Their ability to build partnerships will be crucial in this game.
Shaheen Shah Afridi is one of the best fast bowlers in the world, and his record against New Zealand makes him a key threat. Partnered with Haris Rauf, Pakistan’s bowling attack has the firepower to trouble any opposition.
However, Pakistan must improve their consistency to challenge New Zealand effectively in this match.
Predicted Playing XI:
Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (c) (wk), Salman Agha, Tayyab Tahir, Khushdil Shah, Haris Rauf, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmed
New Zealand Preview
New Zealand comes into this match full of confidence, having defeated Pakistan twice in the recent Tri-Nation Series, including a comfortable final win.
Despite missing Lockie Ferguson, Ben Sears, Matt Henry, and Rachin Ravindra for the final, they still delivered a dominant performance, showcasing their depth. For this match, only Matt Henry is expected to return, strengthening an already potent bowling attack.
With the bat, the top order looks in excellent form, with Devon Conway, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, and Glenn Phillips all producing significant scores on this tour. Their ability to build and accelerate will be crucial against Pakistan’s attack.
Michael Bracewell and Mitchell Santner will play a major role in the middle overs, offering tight spin bowling while contributing with the bat when required.
With their strong record against Pakistan, the visitors will be confident heading into this encounter.
Predicted Playing XI:
Will Young, Devon Conway, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham (wk), Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (c), Matt Henry, Jacob Duffy, Will O’Rourke
FANTASY TEAM XI
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Kane Williamson | Batter (C) |
| Babar Azam | Batter (VC) |
| Mohammad Rizwan | Wicketkeeper |
| Devon Conway | Batter |
| Fakhar Zaman | Batter |
| Daryl Mitchell | All-rounder |
| Michael Bracewell | All-rounder |
| Shaheen Afridi | Bowler |
| Matt Henry | Bowler |
| Naseem Shah | Bowler |
| Mitchell Santner | All-rounder |
PITCH REPORT
The National Stadium in Karachi has historically been a good surface for batting, but bowlers can also find assistance if they hit the right areas.
- Batting Conditions: Consistent bounce will allow batters to play freely, with a par score around 300 runs.
- Bowling Assistance: Pacers will find early movement, while spinners will play a key role in the middle overs.
- Chasing vs. Defending: The last ten ODIs here have seen an even split between teams batting first and chasing.
Toss Prediction: To Bat
With the hottest part of the day expected in the first innings, both teams may prefer to bat first and set a big target.
MATCH PREDICTION
Pakistan will be eager to start strong as hosts, but New Zealand’s recent dominance over them gives the visitors a clear advantage. The Black Caps are in top form, while Pakistan’s inconsistency remains a concern.
With a well-balanced squad and momentum from the Tri-Nation Series, New Zealand is expected to secure a win in this opening clash.
Prediction: New Zealand to win the match.
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