• Will Young's gritty century rescued New Zealand from a top-order collapse against Pakistan in the Champions Trophy 2025 opener.

  • Young played a blistering knock of 107 runs off 113 deliveries decorated with 12 fours and 1 six.

PAK vs NZ: Fans go gaga over Will Young’s astonishing ton against Pakistan in the Champions Trophy 2025 opener
Fans go gaga over Will Young's astonishing ton against Pakistan in the Champions Trophy 2025 opening clash (Image source: X)

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In the opening match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Pakistan won the toss and elected to field against New Zealand at the National Stadium in Karachi. This decision marked the beginning of Pakistan’s quest to secure their first ICC trophy in eight years, while also hosting their first global cricketing event in 29 years. However, the day belonged to New Zealand’s Will Young, who scored a magnificent century, propelling his team to a competitive total after a shaky start.

New Zealand batters wobble early

New Zealand’s innings began on shaky ground, with their top order struggling against Pakistan’s potent bowling attack. Devon Conway was the first to fall, dismissed by Abrar Ahmed for 10 off 17 balls. Kane Williamson followed soon after, falling prey to Naseem Shah for a mere 1 run off 2 balls. Daryl Mitchell‘s cautious innings of 10 runs off 24 balls came to an end when he was caught off Haris Rauf‘s bowling. The Kiwis were reeling at 73/3 in 16.2 overs, in desperate need of a partnership to steady the ship.

Will Young’s heroic century of brilliance against Pakistan

Amidst the early collapse, Young stood firm, displaying remarkable resilience and composure. He anchored the innings and formed a crucial partnership with Tom Latham. Young reached his half-century in 56 balls, showcasing a blend of caution and aggression. As he gained confidence, he began to play more freely, dispatching bad balls to the boundary.

Young found an able partner in Latham, who contributed a valuable 53 not out off 62 balls. The pair constructed a formidable partnership, adding 100 runs in 109 balls for the fourth wicket. Latham’s composed innings allowed Young to express himself, and together they resurrected the New Zealand innings.

The right-handed batter reached his century in 107 balls, decorated with 12 fours and 1 six. His innings was a masterclass in pacing, as he accelerated after a cautious start to put Pakistan’s bowlers under pressure. He soon after scoring his classy ton fell to Naseem on 107 runs, guiding New Zealand to a path of competitive total at 191/4 in 37.2 overs.

By the end of the New Zealand’s innings Latham too completed his century, scoring 118 of just 104 deliveries with the help of 10 fours and 3 sixes. Glenn Phillips smashed a quickfire 69, with the Black Caps ending their innings at 320/5  in 50 overs.

Also WATCH: Abrar Ahmed outfoxes Devon Conway with a wrong’un in Champions Trophy 2025

Here’s how fans reacted:

Also WATCH: Naseem Shah’s pumped up celebration after dismissing Kane Williamson in Champions Trophy 2025

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About the Author:
AKASH THAPA
Akash Thapa is a dedicated cricket journalist with three years of experience in the media industry. A BA (JMC) graduate from VIPS, GGSIPU, and a postgraduate in MAJMC from the University of Lucknow, Akash combines his academic credentials with a deep-rooted passion for cricket.His background as a former junior-level wrestler and cricketer enriches his insightful analysis and commentary on the game. Known for his inventive approach to writing and his commitment to capturing the nuances of cricket, Akash is a true aficionado of the sport.Connect with Akash on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram.