NZ outclass Pakistan in Champions Trophy opener

KABUL (Pajhwok): New Zealand triumphed over Pakistan by 60 runs in the opening match of the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi on Wednesday night.

Asked to bat first, New Zealand posted a commanding total of 320/5 in the stipulated 50 overs, powered by centuries from Will Young (107 off 113 balls) and Tom Latham (118 off 104 balls).

According to The Nation, New Zealand faced early setbacks, losing Devon Conway (10) and Kane Williamson (1) cheaply. However, Young steadied the innings, forging a crucial partnership with Daryl Mitchell (10) before Latham took charge.

Young's well-paced 107, which included 12 fours and a six, laid the foundation for a strong finish. Latham played a captain's knock, blasting 10 fours and 3 sixes in his unbeaten 118.

Glenn Phillips (61 off 39) added the finishing touches, helping New Zealand surpass the 320-run mark.

Pakistan's bowlers struggled, with Naseem Shah taking two wickets, Haris Rauf picking up two and Abrar Ahmed claiming one.

In pursuit of 321, Pakistan’s chase faltered from the start, losing Saud Shakeel (6) and Mohammad Rizwan (3) early, thanks to a disciplined bowling display by Will O’Rourke (3-47).

Fakhar Zaman (24 off 41) and Babar Azam (64 off 90) tried to rebuild the Pakistani innings, but their slow scoring rate ramped up the pressure.

The middle order stumbled, with Tayyab Tahir (1) and Salman Agha (42 off 28) failing to convert starts.

Khushdil Shah (69 off 49, with 10 fours and a six) played a valiant counterattacking knock, but lacked support from the lower order.

Matt Henry (2-25) and Mitchell Santner (3-66) wrapped up Pakistan’s tail, as they were bowled out for 260 in 47.2 overs.

sa/mud