By dubailife 
New Zealand Stun Pakistan in Champions Trophy Opener as Dubai Fans Watch in Disappointment
Pakistan’s long-awaited return as a global tournament host ended in disappointment as New Zealand spoiled the party with a 60-run victory in Karachi. The co-hosts suffered a heavy defeat on the opening day of the Champions Trophy, putting their semi-final hopes in jeopardy in a short-format tournament where every game counts.
Dubai-based Pakistan cricket fans, who have been eagerly following their team’s return to hosting duties, were left frustrated as Will Young and Tom Latham orchestrated a dominant performance for New Zealand. Both batters smashed impressive centuries, laying the foundation for a commanding total.
Early Injury to Fakhar Zaman Weakens Pakistan’s Chase
Pakistan’s troubles began early when Fakhar Zaman suffered an injury just two balls into the match while chasing a cover drive from Young. Forced off the field for a long period, Fakhar was unable to open the batting in Pakistan’s chase of 321 runs.
By the time he came out at No. 4, Pakistan were struggling at 22 for 2 in 10 overs. Clearly hampered while running between the wickets, Fakhar found it difficult to accelerate, especially against New Zealand’s spinners Michael Bracewell and Glenn Phillips, who expertly kept the ball out of his hitting arc. Fakhar’s frustrating stay ended when he was bowled by Bracewell for 24 off 41 balls.
Pakistan’s Batters Struggle Against New Zealand’s Spinners
Most of Pakistan’s batting lineup, including Babar Azam, failed to shift gears, with the captain taking 81 balls to reach his half-century. Despite injuries to key pacers Lockie Ferguson and Ben Sears, New Zealand’s spinners dominated on a Karachi pitch that offered turn and variable bounce.
So effective were the spinners that New Zealand didn’t introduce their third seamer, Nathan Smith, until the 31st over, by which time Pakistan’s required run rate had climbed to nearly ten per over.
Young and Latham Lead New Zealand’s Charge
New Zealand also faced early setbacks, slipping to 40 for 2 in the ninth over and 73 for 3 in the 17th over. However, Will Young and Tom Latham stabilized the innings, rebuilding with measured aggression.
Young, often on the fringes of New Zealand’s squad, made the most of his opportunity in Kane Williamson’s absence. His maiden international century away from home was a statement performance, reminding selectors of his talent.
Latham, who had struggled with poor form leading into the tri-series final, bounced back spectacularly, hammering 118 off 104 balls. His innings included a masterclass in sweep shots, unsettling Pakistan’s spinners with reverse sweeps and unconventional stroke play.
Explosive Finish Takes New Zealand Past 300
After Young’s departure for 107, Latham and Phillips took charge, adding 125 runs in just 74 balls. Phillips accelerated to his half-century in just 16 balls, punishing Pakistan’s bowlers with aggressive stroke play.
His 61 off 39 balls, featuring back-to-back sixes off Shaheen Afridi, powered New Zealand to a formidable 320-run total. This onslaught proved decisive as Pakistan never recovered from their poor start.
Pakistan’s Lowest Powerplay Score in Five Years
Pakistan endured their worst powerplay since March 2019, struggling to build momentum early on. Despite a late flourish from Khushdil Shah (69 off 49 balls) and some lower-order hitting, Pakistan ultimately fell short, bowled out for 260 in the 48th over.
Dubai Fans Left Disappointed as New Zealand Assert Dominance
For the third time in two weeks, New Zealand outclassed Pakistan with ruthless efficiency, solidifying their status as a strong title contender. In his first global tournament as New Zealand’s captain, Mitchell Santner claimed three wickets, ensuring his team started their Champions Trophy campaign in style.
Dubai’s passionate cricket fans, many of whom gathered in sports cafés and fan zones across the city, were left disheartened by Pakistan’s lackluster performance. With just two group-stage matches remaining, Babar Azam’s team faces a must-win situation to keep their Champions Trophy hopes alive.
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Source Cricinfo