• New Zealand triumphed over Pakistan by 60 runs in their Champions Trophy opener.
• Will Young and Tom Latham scored centuries, leading New Zealand to a total of 320-5.
• Pakistan struggled to chase, being bowled out for 260 in 47.2 overs.
• This marks New Zealand's strong start in the tournament and raises pressure on Pakistan's next match.

KARACHI, Pakistan: New Zealand showcased their intent in the Champions Trophy with a commanding victory, defeating defending champions Pakistan by 60 runs at the National Stadium on Wednesday. Set to bat first, New Zealand overcame a shaky start to score 320-5, powered by stellar performances from Will Young and Tom Latham, both of whom struck centuries. Young scored 107 runs and Latham remained not out at 118, while Glenn Phillips added a brisk 61 as the team recovered from early setbacks.

New Zealand faced challenges early, losing three wickets quickly, but the partnership between Young and Latham steadied the innings, constructing a century partnership that was key to laying a solid foundation. "The way Young and Latham rotated the strike and got the odd boundary really set us up," remarked New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner after the match. As a result, they amassed more than 300 runs, which appeared distant after their slow opening.

In response, Pakistan struggled throughout their innings, ending at 260 runs in 47.2 overs. Skipper Mohammad Rizwan opted to bowl first after winning the toss but was unable to contain New Zealand’s batting onslaught. Babar Azam and Khushdil Shah provided some resistance with scores of 64 and 69 respectively, but their efforts fell short as the team lost wickets at crucial junctures.

"They put a good target on the board—we didn't expect 320," admitted Rizwan post-match, reflecting on the surprising run total. The Pakistani opener Fakhar Zaman was hampered by an early injury, contributing to the team's woes as they slumped to 22-2 by the end of the powerplay. This marked Pakistan’s third straight ODI defeat to New Zealand on home soil, intensifying pressure ahead of their next match against India, scheduled for Sunday.

With this win, New Zealand has sent a strong message about their title aspirations in the Champions Trophy. For further details, visit Channel News Asia, BBC, Al Jazeera, and Reuters.