The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set for an exhilarating contest between Pakistan and New Zealand in the tournament’s first match to be held at the National Stadium, Karachi, on February 19, starting at 2.30 PM IST. This match is expected to be the perfect ignition for this competition, with both teams coming in with a solid lineup.
Pakistan’s captain, Mohammad Rizwan, looks forward to the performances of Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, and Shaheen Shah Afridi in obtaining a match-winning performance. In particular, Babar Azam would want to deliver a winning performance as he comes with a stupendous record in international cricket. Shaheen Afridi, on the other hand, will take charge of Pakistan’s bowling, trying to penetrate deep into the New Zealand batting line-up.
New Zealand, captained by Mitchell Santner, will rely on the experience of Kane Williamson, Devon Conway, and Lockie Ferguson to steer them to victory. Williamson, one of the most technically adept batsmen in the world, will seek to hold together the New Zealand innings, while Conway aims to deliver a solid opening partnership. The stage is thus set for a riveting contest, with the two teams likely to treat the spectators to a real cliffhanger.
Pakistan vs New Zealand Head-To-Head Record
Matches Played: 118
Won by PAK: 61
Won by NZ: 53
Tied: 1
NR: 3
Who Will the Match?
New Zealand is the favorite against the hosts because of their recent performance, which included winning the tri-nation series in Pakistan. Over the past ten or so years, the Black Caps have consistently performed above their weight class in ICC tournaments, and they will be looking to start their pursuit of a second CT crown with a victory.
Match Detais
Date: February 19, 2025
Time: 2:00 PM Local Time/ 2:30 pm IST/ 10 am GMT
Venue: National Stadium, Karachi
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