New Zealand sets 321-run target for Pakistan in ICC Champions Trophy Opener

(Web Desk): In the opening match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, New Zealand set a target of 321 runs for host Pakistan.

In the match being played at Karachi's National Stadium, Pakistan's captain Mohammad Rizwan won the toss and invited the visiting team to bat.

New Zealand, batting first against Pakistan in the allotted 50 overs, scored 320 runs for the loss of 5 wickets.

Pakistan's first breakthrough came from Abrar Ahmed when New Zealand's first wicket fell at 39 runs. Devon Conway was bowled by Abrar Ahmed for 10 runs. Later, Naseem Shah sent Kane Williamson back to the pavilion for just 1 run, with Williamson's catch taken by Mohammad Rizwan behind the stumps.

The third wicket was taken by Haris Rauf, who dismissed Daryl Mitchell for 10 runs.

Will Young played an outstanding knock of 107 runs, but was dismissed by Naseem Shah for 107 runs.

Glenn Phillips was dismissed by Haris Rauf, having made 61 runs off 39 balls.

Tom Latham played an unbeaten innings of 118 runs, including three sixes and 10 fours.

During the toss, Pakistan's captain Mohammad Rizwan mentioned that one change had been made in the team, with fast bowler Haris Rauf replacing Faheem Ashraf. He added that there is dew in the second innings, and as defending champions, there would be some pressure.

On the other hand, Kiwi captain Mitchell Santner said that the pitch at Karachi Stadium looked good, and there would be dew at night. Fast bowler Matt Henry had returned to the team.

It is worth mentioning that this is the first ICC event in Pakistan in 29 years.