PAK vs NZ Prediction, Champions Trophy 2025: Who will Win Pakistan vs New Zealand Group A Encounter?

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The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is set to kick off with an exciting opening match between hosts Pakistan and New Zealand on February 19 at the National Stadium in Karachi.

This tournament holds special significance for Pakistan, marking their first time hosting a major global cricket event since 1996. Both teams are eager to start their campaigns on a positive note.

Pakistan and New Zealand are in Group A along with India, and Bangladesh. It is a huge challenge for both teams and the winner shall have a step forward towards the semifinals.

Champions Trophy 2025: Pakistan vs New Zealand Schedule

Date: February 19, 2025
Time: 2:00 PM Local Time/ 2:30 pm IST/ 10 am GMT
Venue: National Stadium, Karachi

Pakistan vs New Zealand Predicted Playing XI

Pakistan: Mohammad Rizwan (c) (wk), Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Salman Ali Agha, Khushdil Shah, Faheem Ashraf, Tayyab Tahir, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmed.

New Zealand: Devon Conway, Will Young, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham (wk), Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner (c), Michael Bracewell, Nathan Smith, Jacob Duffy, Will O'Rourke.

Pakistan vs New Zealand Prediction: Who will Win PAK vs NZ Match 1?

Pakistan enter the tournament as the defending champions, having clinched the title in 2017. Under the leadership of Mohammad Rizwan, they boast a balanced squad with a potent mix of experienced batsmen and a formidable pace attack. The home advantage is a big plus for them but recent results against the Kiwis are not encouraging for them.

New Zealand, led by Mitchell Santner, faces the challenge of integrating new talents following the retirement of key bowlers Tim Southee and Trent Boult. However, the return of seasoned batsman Kane Williamson adds depth to their batting lineup. Their recent victory in the tri-nation series against Pakistan and South Africa will be a big boost.

PAK vs NZ CT 2025 Prediction: Although Pakistan will be in front of home supporters and have familiar conditions, it remains a challenge for them in front of New Zealand. The Blackcaps dominated Pakistan in the tri-nation series and will be optimistic for the same in the Champions Trophy as well. It will be a close encounter, but New Zealand just have the edge over the hosts.