Karachi – The Champions Trophy tournament has officially kicked off in Pakistan. In the first match, Pakistan won the toss and opted to bowl first against New Zealand.
Speaking after the toss at Karachi’s National Bank Arena, Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan stated that dew plays a role in the second innings, and fast bowler Haris Rauf is part of the team. Rizwan also acknowledged the pressure of being the defending champions.
New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner mentioned that the pitch looks good but expects dew later in the evening.
Pakistan’s Playing XI
For today’s match, Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan, Salman Agha, Tayyab Tahir, Khushdil Shah, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, and Abrar Ahmed are part of the squad.
Traffic Plan
During today’s and other upcoming matches in Karachi, Sir Shah Suleman Road will remain open for traffic, while spectators heading to the stadium must park their vehicles at the National Coaching Center and China Ground.
Commuters from Karsaz will reach the Coaching Center and China Ground via the underpass.
Heavy traffic will be allowed from Sohrab Goth to NIPA, Liaquatabad No. 10 to Hassan Square, and from People’s Chowrangi to University Road.
Certain routes will remain closed for heavy traffic, including Karsaz to Stadium, Millennium to New Town, and Stadium Signal to Hassan Square.
Exciting Contest Expected in Champions Trophy Opener Against Pakistan: Tom Latham
New Zealand’s wicketkeeper-batsman Tom Latham has stated that a thrilling contest is expected in the Champions Trophy 2025 opening match against Pakistan.
Speaking at a press conference in Karachi, Latham mentioned that the pitch prepared for the first match is slightly different from the one used in the tri-series final. He added that matches against Pakistan are always competitive, and the opening game will be no different. He also provided an injury update, confirming that Rachin Ravindra has recovered, but Lockie Ferguson remains unfit.
He emphasized that New Zealand has played quite a few matches in Pakistan over the past two to three years, giving them a solid understanding of local conditions. “Both teams have studied each other well, and we performed well in the tri-series,” he added.
Latham further highlighted the importance of taking wickets in ODI cricket, saying, “If you don’t take wickets, the opposition can score quickly. Our spinners performed well in the tri-series.” He acknowledged that Pakistan will have strong home crowd support, making it a challenging contest.
New Zealand Has Several In-Form Players: Naseem Shah
Pakistan fast bowler Naseem Shah praised New Zealand’s squad, emphasizing that they are a strong team with multiple in-form players. He said, “We can’t target just one player. Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, and Glenn Phillips are all playing well, and taking their wickets will be crucial for us.”
He stressed that the team that plays better on the day will be the one to win.
Pakistan Team is Full of Talent: Kane Williamson
New Zealand’s star batter and former captain Kane Williamson acknowledged the strength of Pakistan’s squad, noting that they have world-class players with plenty of experience.
He said, “Every cricketer who plays for Pakistan is top-class. They have experienced players who have been playing for a long time.”
Williamson also praised Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan, Shaheen Afridi, and Babar Azam, highlighting their abilities. Additionally, he recognized Salman Ali Agha’s impressive form, mentioning that he was the Player of the Series in a recent competition.
He concluded by saying, “It’s important for us to back our abilities and play to our strengths.”
