Twitter Reactions: Young, Latham tons take New Zealand to 320 in CT 2025 opener

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 kicked off with New Zealand posting a huge total of 320/5 against Pakistan in the tournament opener at the National Stadium in Karachi on Wednesday. Centuries from Will Young and Tom Latham guided the Kiwis to a strong score, putting the hosts under pressure as they came to chase this target.

Both the teams entered the contest with momentum, having faced each other just five days ago in the final of the recently concluded Tri-Nation Series, where New Zealand clinched a comfortable win. Pakistan’s captain Mohammad Rizwan won the toss and opted to bowl first, banking on his bowlers to take advantage of the conditions.

Pakistan welcomed back Haris Rauf into the lineup after his recovery from a muscular strain, while New Zealand’s skipper Mitchell Santner included Matt Henry in the playing XI, leaving out Rachin Ravindra due to an injury.

New Zealand's innings got off to a poor start as Naseem Shah and Abrar Ahmed removed Devon Conway (10) and Kane Williamson (1) cheaply, as the Kiwis were struggling at 40/2. Their woes continued when Daryl Mitchell (10) also fell soon.

Also Read: WATCH: Pakistan Air Troupe 'Sherdils' startles New Zealand players ahead of Champions Trophy match

However, Young took the responsibility and stabilised the innings with an exceptional knock. The opener brought up his fourth ODI century off 107 balls. Young’s innings of 107 from 113 deliveries, was laced with 12 boundaries and a six. He formed a crucial 118-run partnership with Tom Latham for the fourth wicket, getting the team back in the contest.

The right-hand batter eventually fell while attempting to accelerate, caught at the boundary off Naseem Shah’s bowling. But the dismissal didn't affect the BlackCaps as Latham continued his onslaught.

The southpaw, who had been the perfect anchor during Young’s innings, shifted gears after reaching his half-century. The wicketkeeper-batter eventually smashed an unbeaten 118 off 104 balls, including 10 boundaries and three sixes.

Also Read: WATCH: Abrar Ahmed mocks Devon Conway after dismissal during PAK vs NZ Champions Trophy match; video goes viral

Furthermore, Glenn Phillips' late cameo of 61 off just 39 deliveries, helped the side cross the 300-run mark, as the side eventually finished with a total of 320/5 in their 50 overs. For Pakistan, all their bowlers were expensive, however, Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf picked two wickets each.

Check out how 'X' reacted to 1st innings of Match No.1 in Karachi: