![Pakistan will face New Zealand in the 1st match [Source: AP]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1739905426715_PAK_NZ_Prediction.jpg?type=mq)
Pakistan will face New Zealand in the 1st match [Source: AP]
This afternoon, Pakistan will face New Zealand in the inaugural group-stage match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The hosts will kickstart their campaign at the iconic National Stadium in Karachi.
Recently, Pakistan faced New Zealand in two ODIs during the Tri-Series at home. The BlackCaps emerged victorious on both occasions, including the final of the competition. Interestingly, New Zealand have the upper hand over Pakistan in the Champions Trophy, having won all three matches.
PAK vs NZ Predicted Score Today
Predicted first innings score: 270-290
Predicted second innings score: 275-295
Who Will Win Today’s PAK vs NZ Match?
Case 1: If Pakistan bat first
As we expect both teams to bowl first upon winning the toss, Pakistan can bat first if New Zealand invite them to do so. Pakistan will likely be more dependent on Fakhar Zaman, Mohammad Rizwan and Agha Salman, with Babar Azam struggling as an opener.
If they bat first, the hosts might lose a few early wickets, given their slightly vulnerable top order. In such a scenario, the middle-order could focus on rebuilding rather than playing a fearless brand of cricket. So, Pakistan might score somewhere around 260-270, which should be a chaseable score for New Zealand.
Case 2: If New Zealand bat first
As we expect both teams to bowl first upon winning the toss, New Zealand can bat first if Pakistan invite them to do so. Although there's some concern about Will Young's form and Rachin Ravindra's injury, New Zealand are blessed with the consistent duo of Kane Williamson and Devon Conway.
So, expect these two players to set the foundation for a challenging score and the likes of Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham and Glenn Phillips to capitalise on it. New Zealand's deep batting lineup might lead them to something around 310-320, and Pakistan could feel it tough to chase against the visitors' all-round bowling attack.
PAK vs NZ Head-to-Head Record In ODIs
| Criterion | Data |
|---|---|
| Matches played | 118 |
| Pakistan won | 61 |
| New Zealand won | 53 |
| Tied | 1 |
| No result | 3 |
National Stadium Karachi Pitch Report
The pitch at the National Stadium in Karachi generally favours the batters. There could be some turn for the spinners, but overall, it will be a fairly good batting wicket with even pace and bounce. The track won't likely change much with time, so the toss-winner might prefer to chase.
Players To Watch Out For In PAK vs NZ
Pakistan
- Mohammad Rizwan has struck 435 runs at an average of 62.14 since 2024. His ability to perform under pressure makes him a key player.
- Fakhar Zaman has enjoyed stellar success against New Zealand, scoring 1053 runs at an average of 65.81 and a strike rate of 95.90.
- Shaheen Afridi is a genuine wicket-taker and will operate across phases. He is Pakistan's most successful bowler since January 2024 and could be a threat to the Kiwis' batting lineup.
New Zealand
- Daryl Mitchell has been a prolific performer for New Zealand at number four. He has scored 536 runs at a superb average of 53.60 against Pakistan.
- William O'Rourke could be New Zealand's surprise weapon for Pakistan batters. He scalped six wickets at a magnificent strike rate in the Tri-Series and could trouble the hosts with his pace and hit-the-deck bowling.
- Kane Williamson has been New Zealand's Mr consistent with the bat. The former captain looked sublime in the Tri-Series, scoring 225 runs at an average of 112.50 and a strike rate of 89.64.
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