Pakistan set for title defence as Champions Trophy 2025 begins today

The ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 is all set commence today with defending champions Pakistan taking on New Zealand at the National Bank Stadium, Karachi.

Pakistan, who claimed the title in 2017, have a strong record against New Zealand in ICC tournaments, with their most recent victory coming in the 2023 Cricket World Cup.

However, the Blackcaps last defeated Pakistan in an ICC event in 2016 and will aim to start their campaign with a win.

New Zealand enter the match with momentum, having won a recent tri-nation ODI series unbeaten, including two victories over Pakistan.

Read more: 'No pressure,' Babar Azam determined to shine in Champions Trophy 2025

Overall, the two teams have faced off in 118 ODIs, with Pakistan winning 61 matches and New Zealand securing 53 wins.

Pakistan’s pace attack, featuring Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, and Mohammad Hasnain, will be crucial. However, their spin department relies solely on Abrar Ahmed. In batting, Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, and Mohammad Rizwan lead the charge.

New Zealand, despite missing pacer Lockie Ferguson and uncertainty over Rachin Ravindra, have a strong lineup, including Kane Williamson and Daryl Mitchell.

The match promises to be a thrilling contest as both teams look to start their campaign on a high.