Champions Trophy 2025: Pakistan vs New Zealand, PAK vs NZ Pitch and Weather Forecast- Karachi National Stadium Report

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Champions Trophy 2025: Pakistan and New Zealand are set to face off in the opening match of the ICC Champions Trophy at the National Bank Cricket Arena in Karachi. New Zealand recently dominated Pakistan in the ODI Tri-Series, securing two convincing wins.

Despite Pakistan showing improvement in the 50-over format under Mohammad Rizwan's leadership, they will be eager to settle the score after their disappointing losses in the Tri-Series. With both teams boasting match-winners in their squads, fans can expect an exciting contest in Karachi.

The rivalry between these two teams dates back to 1973, when they first met in an ODI. Over the years, they have played 118 ODIs, with Pakistan holding a slight advantage-winning 61 matches compared to New Zealand's 53. Additionally, one game ended in a tie, while three matches had no result.

However, New Zealand has a dominant record over Pakistan in the Champions Trophy, having won all three of their previous encounters in the tournament.

PAK vs NZ: Pitch Report

The pitch at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi is generally favorable for batters, offering good bounce and carry that allows them to play their shots effectively. Fast bowlers may get some assistance with the new ball, but as the match progresses, conditions are likely to become even more conducive to batting. Given this trend, the captain winning the toss might opt to bowl first.

During the recently concluded Pakistan Tri-Nation Series 2025, the home team successfully chased down South Africa's imposing target of 353 runs with an over to spare. Similarly, New Zealand cruised to victory against Pakistan's 242-run total, reaching the target comfortably with more than three overs remaining.

PAK vs NZ: Weather Forecast

Karachi is expected to have partly cloudy skies when Pakistan and New Zealand face off in the Champions Trophy opener on February 19. The likelihood of rain is minimal at just 7%, ensuring mostly dry conditions. Temperatures will range from around 30°C during the day to a cooler 19°C at night. Wind speeds are expected to vary between 15 km/h and 25 km/h, while humidity levels could peak at 72%.

PAK vs NZ- Full Squad

Pakistan: Mohammad Rizwan (C & WK), Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir, Faheem Ashraf, Khushdil Shah, Salman Ali Agha, Usman Khan, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi.

New Zealand: Mitchell Santner (C), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway (WK), Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Tom Latham (WK), Daryl Mitchell, Will O'Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Nathan Smith, Kane Williamson, Will Young, Jacob Duffy.