The batting firepower of New Zealand was at its peak as Will Young and Tom Latham spearheaded the attack against Pakistan in the Champions Trophy 2025 opener. Both the batsmen hammered centuries, taking the Kiwis to a dominant total of 320 runs in the first innings.
Young established the tone early with a smooth knock, taking Pakistan’s bowlers to task with crisp stroke play and measured aggression. Captain Latham, holding the innings together, gave the perfect blend of solidity and pace, making sure New Zealand made the most of a good beginning.
Pakistan’s bowlers, having broken through early, found it difficult to rein in the Kiwi pair, with Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf taking most of the beating. New Zealand’s middle-order contribution and late power-hitting provided vital runs, making life tough for Babar Azam’s team to chase.
With 320 on the board, New Zealand now turn to their pace attack and spinners to defend the total, while Pakistan prepare for what is shaping up to be a fierce second innings in this high-stakes tournament opener.
