Table of Contents
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 kicks off with a clash between hosts Pakistan and New Zealand at the National Stadium in Karachi on Wednesday, February 19. This marks a historic moment for Pakistan cricket, hosting a major ICC event after nearly three decades.
Mohammad Rizwan’s Pakistan will be eager to capitalize on the home advantage. However, they will be wary of Mitchell Santner & Co., who have shown strong form, including a recent tri-series victory in Pakistan.
The match promises to be a thrilling contest between two evenly matched sides. Pakistan will be looking to avenge their recent tri-series final defeat to New Zealand at the same venue.
This opening contest will set the tone for the entire tournament, with both teams eager to establish early momentum and lay the foundation for a successful campaign.
PAK vs NZ: Head-to-Head Record in ODIs
Matches played: 118 | Pakistan won: 61 | New Zealand won: 53 | No result: 03 | Tie: 01
National Stadium ODI Stats and Records
- Total matches: 78
- Matches won batting first: 36
- Matches won bowling first: 39
- Average 1st Inns scores: 239
- Average 2nd Inns scores: 205
- Highest total recorded: 374/4 (50 Ov) by India vs Hong Kong
- Lowest total recorded: 93/10 (40.4 Ov) by Pakistan Women vs Sri Lanka Women
- Highest score chased: 355/4 (49 Ov) by Pakistan vs South Africa
- Lowest score defended: 123/10 (45.2 Ov) by Sri Lanka vs Pakistan Women
Also READ: PAK vs NZ – Pakistan’s playing XI for the Champions Trophy 2025 match against New Zealand [Predicted]
National Stadium Pitch Report
The pitch at the National Stadium in Karachi is expected to be conducive to high-scoring matches during the Champions Trophy 2025. Initially, fast bowlers may find some assistance, but as the game progresses, the surface will likely favour batters, allowing them to play their strokes freely. Spinners might find some grip as the ball ages, although significant turn is not anticipated.
Historically, the stadium has hosted numerous high-scoring encounters, with an average first innings score around 239 runs. The weather on match day is predicted to be sunny, which could enhance conditions for batting and potentially allow for reverse swing in the later stages of the game. Captain winning the toss may prefer to bowl first, as batting tends to become easier under lights.
