Match Details
- Fixture: Pakistan vs New Zealand, Match 1, Champions Trophy 2025
- Venue: National Stadium, Karachi
- Date & Time: Wednesday, February 19, 2025, 2:30 PM (IST)
- Live Broadcast & Streaming: Sports18/Star Sports Network, JioHotstar (app & website)
Teams Overview
Pakistan
Pakistan will kickstart their Champions Trophy 2025 campaign on home soil, carrying the advantage of familiar conditions. However, injuries have plagued their squad, with opener Saim Ayub missing out. Pakistan will rely on experienced players like Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Fakhar Zaman to deliver in the batting department, while the pace attack led by Shaheen Afridi will be crucial in home conditions.
New Zealand
New Zealand comes into this match fresh from a successful Tri-series win over Pakistan. The Kiwis have had ample time to adjust to the conditions, and their squad is well-balanced, even with Lockie Ferguson ruled out due to injury. Kane Williamson’s leadership, coupled with the experience of Devon Conway and the all-round abilities of Mitchell Santner, makes them formidable opposition.
Head-to-Head Record (ODIs)
- Matches Played: 118
- Won by Pakistan: 61
- Won by New Zealand: 53
- Tied: 1
- No Result: 3
- First-ever Fixture: February 11, 1973
- Most-recent Fixture: February 14, 2025
Probable Playing XI
Pakistan:
- Mohammad Rizwan (c & wk)
- Fakhar Zaman
- Babar Azam
- Saud Shakeel
- Salman Ali Agha
- Khushdil Shah
- Tayyab Tahir
- Shaheen Afridi
- Naseem Shah
- Abrar Ahmed
- Mohammad Hasnain
New Zealand:
- Devon Conway
- Will Young
- Kane Williamson
- Daryl Mitchell
- Tom Latham (wk)
- Glenn Phillips
- Mitchell Santner (c)
- Michael Bracewell
- Nathan Smith
- Jacob Duffy
- William O’Rourke
Pitch Report
The National Stadium in Karachi is known for its batting-friendly surface, especially in the second innings. Fast bowlers might get some early movement, but as the match progresses, it will become easier for batters to score. Spinners might struggle in the second half as the ball skids onto the bat.
Key Players to Watch
Pakistan:
- Fakhar Zaman: Pakistan’s explosive opener is expected to lead from the front. He was in fine form during the tri-series, scoring 135 runs in three games at an average of 45.
- Shaheen Afridi: The left-arm pacer will be Pakistan’s main weapon with the ball, especially with the new ball under lights.
New Zealand:
- Kane Williamson: The backbone of New Zealand’s batting lineup, Williamson will be key in neutralizing Pakistan’s bowling attack.
- Matt Henry: He has been New Zealand’s most consistent pacer, picking up five wickets in two games in the Tri-series.
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Live Streaming
India:
- TV Channel: Sony Pictures Network (Specific channel to be announced)
- Live Streaming: SonyLIV app and website
Pakistan:
- TV Channel: Asports
- Live Streaming: Tamasha App, Tapmad
Probable Scenarios & Predictions
Scenario 1: New Zealand win the toss and opt to bat first
- Powerplay Score: 40-50 runs
- Final Total: 260-280 runs
- Match Outcome: New Zealand wins
Scenario 2: Pakistan win the toss and opt to bat first
- Powerplay Score: 50-60 runs
- Final Total: 270-290 runs
- Match Outcome: Pakistan wins
Match Prediction:
Pakistan holds a slight edge due to home conditions, but New Zealand’s strong recent form makes them tough competitors. The toss could play a crucial role, with chasing likely to be easier under lights. If Pakistan’s bowlers can strike early, they have a strong chance of securing a victory.
Final Verdict: Pakistan favorites, but New Zealand’s adaptability makes them a dangerous opponent.
