Pakistan will face New Zealand in the first match of the Champions Trophy 2025 on Wednesday, February 19, at Karachi Stadium. As the host nation, Pakistan will look to make a strong start to the tournament. New Zealand, fresh off a successful tri-nation series, will aim to carry that momentum into this highly anticipated encounter.
Pakistan’s Predicted Playing XI
Pakistan’s batting lineup will be anchored by Babar Azam, whose recent form has been key to the team’s success. He will be supported by Fakhar Zaman, who is expected to open the innings alongside Mohammad Rizwan. This pair will look to give Pakistan a solid start, setting the tone for the middle order.
The middle order will feature Saud Shakeel and Salman Ali Agha, who provide stability, while Khushdil Shah adds power to the lower order. Pakistan’s bowling attack will be led by Shaheen Afridi, with Naseem Shah offering extra pace. Abrar Ahmed, a spin specialist, is expected to play a key role on the spin-friendly Karachi pitch. Haris Rauf, recovering from an abdominal injury, might not be available for the opening match.
New Zealand’s Predicted Playing XI
New Zealand’s batting strength will be bolstered by the return of Kane Williamson, one of the world’s top batsmen. Opening the batting will be Devon Conway and Will Young, who will aim to provide a solid foundation for the team. The middle order will feature reliable players like Daryl Mitchell and Tom Latham, with Glenn Phillips also looking to play a crucial role.
The bowling attack for New Zealand will be led by Jacob Duffy and Lockie Ferguson. Both are known for their pace and will look to challenge Pakistan’s top order. Mitchell Santner, the left-arm spinner, will play an important role during the middle overs. Rachin Ravindra, who recently sustained a forehead injury during a warm-up match, has resumed training but is still a doubt for the opening game.
Predicted Playing XI: Pakistan vs New Zealand
Pakistan:
- Mohammad Rizwan (c) (wk)
- Fakhar Zaman
- Babar Azam
- Saud Shakeel
- Salman Ali Agha
- Khushdil Shah
- Tayyab Tahir
- Shaheen Afridi
- Naseem Shah
- Abrar Ahmed
- Mohammad Hasnain
New Zealand:
- Devon Conway
- Will Young
- Kane Williamson
- Daryl Mitchell
- Tom Latham (wk)
- Glenn Phillips
- Mitchell Santner (c)
- Michael Bracewell
- Nathan Smith
- Jacob Duffy
- Lockie Ferguson