Pakistan vs New Zealand, 1st Match Pitch Report - Match Overview & Playing XI | ICC Men's Champions Trophy

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CFLL Staff

Published on

18 February 2025 | 06:25AM
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The ICC Men's Champions Trophy 2025 kicks off with an electrifying contest between Pakistan (PAK) and New Zealand (NZL) at the National Bank Cricket Arena, Karachi on February 19, 2025, at 02:30 PM (IST). As both teams aim to start their campaign with a commanding victory, fans can expect an intense battle filled with high-quality cricket.


Pakistan, playing on home soil, will have the advantage of familiarity with conditions and the roaring support of local fans. Their squad boasts a formidable mix of experienced batters and aggressive pacers, making them a dangerous outfit. With a balanced side, Pakistan will be eager to dominate New Zealand and set the tone for the tournament.


New Zealand, on the other hand, has always been a competitive force in ICC tournaments. Known for their tactical discipline and adaptability, they possess a lineup capable of countering spin and handling Pakistan’s lethal pace attack. The Black Caps will look to their all-rounders and explosive batters to neutralize Pakistan’s home advantage.


With both teams stacked with talent, this opening clash promises to be a thrilling encounter. Stay updated with PAK vs NZL Live Score and don’t miss a moment of the action!

Pakistan vs New Zealand, 1st Match Details

Series

ICC Men's Champions Trophy

Match

Pakistan vs New Zealand

Date & Time

19 February 2025, 02:30 PM

Venue

National Bank Cricket Arena, Karachi

Umpire

Richard Kettleborough , Sharfuddoula

Third Umpire

Joel Wilson

Referee

Andy Pycroft

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Pakistan vs New Zealand, 1st Match Weather Condition

06:00 am

Cloud

0%

Humidity

78%

Wind

17.3 km/h

24

o

Mist

National Bank Cricket Arena, Karachi

National Bank Cricket Arena Pitch Report

Pitch Condition

Flat Track Pitch

Batting Condition

Average

Pace Bowling

Pace & Bounce

Spin Bowling

Average

Pace vs Spin on Venue

(Last 10 match)

The surface at the National Bank Cricket Arena, Karachi is traditionally a batting-friendly track but offers something for bowlers as well. The wicket is known for its consistent bounce and decent pace, allowing batters to play their shots freely. However, as the game progresses, spinners could come into play, exploiting any cracks or wear on the surface. In the early overs, seamers will get assistance, especially under lights in the second innings when dew might play a role. Teams batting first will aim for a competitive total of around 280-320, as chasing under Karachi's conditions can be tricky. Winning the toss and opting to bat could be the preferred choice, given the potential for the pitch to slow down later in the match.

Pakistan Recent form

Last 5 Matches

LWLWW
jp

New Zealand Recent form

Last 5 Matches

WWWLW
jp

Venue Scoring Pattern

Avg 1st Innings

239

X

201

Avg 2st Innings

Highest Total

355-4 by PAK vs SA

X

161-10 by SL vs PAK

Lowest Total

Highest Chased

355-4 by PAK vs SA

X

290-8 by SL vs PAK

Lowest Defended

Matches Won
Batting First

7

39%
|
61%
Bowling First

11

Pakistan vs New Zealand, 1st Match Squad

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Pakistan Probable XI :

Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Khushdil Shah, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir, Usman Khan, Muhammad Rizwan, Kamran Ghulam, Salman Ali Agha, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah

New Zealand Probable XI :

Will Young, Kane Williamson, Tom Latham, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Devon Conway, Mitchell Santner, Matt Henry

Conclusion

As the ICC Men's Champions Trophy 2025 begins, the clash between Pakistan and New Zealand sets the perfect stage for an action-packed tournament. Pakistan will be looking to capitalize on home conditions and deliver a statement performance, while New Zealand, known for their resilience, will aim to challenge the hosts with a well-rounded approach. With key players on both sides ready to shine, fans can expect explosive batting, fiery fast bowling, and strategic spin battles throughout the match. Whether it's Pakistan’s pace attack or New Zealand’s composed batting lineup, the contest promises a nail-biting start to the tournament. Keep an eye on the PAK vs NZL Live Score and witness the drama unfold!