Pakistan vs New Zealand 1st Match Group A Prediction | Weather & Pitch Report, Team Preview
The ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, one of the highly-anticipated events of the cricketing calendar, gets underway with Pakistan taking on New Zealand in Group A on February 19, 2025, at the National Stadium, Karachi and here we are going to discuss Pakistan vs New Zealand 1st Match Group A Prediction. Both teams have formidable line-ups and a tradition of competitive cricket coming into the tournament. Pakistan, with their explosive lineup and home condition, will be aiming to make a statement, and New Zealand, always with their focus on versatility and depth in all departments, will be intent on making a strong start to their quest. The outcome of this match will dictate the course of action for both teams as they strive to get through the group stages into the following rounds.
Let’s have a look at the prediction and various things that are related to Pakistan vs New Zealand 1st Match Group A Prediction.
Overview: Pakistan vs New Zealand 1st Match Group A
Here’s an overview table with all the important details you need to know before making Pakistan vs New Zealand 1st Match Group A Prediction :
| Teams: | Pakistan & New Zealand |
| Date: | 19 February, 2025 |
| Location: | National Stadium in Karachi, Pakistan |
| Number: | 1st |
| Category: | ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 |
| Specified Group: | A |
Team Preview: Pakistan & New Zealand
Here’s an overview of the weather and pitch report for Pakistan vs New Zealand 1st Match Group A Prediction:
Pakistan
Pakistan had not had the best start to this tri-series, losing to New Zealand in their first game. But they bounced back with a comeback performance against South Africa that saw them post a total of 355 with one over to spare. Fakhar Zaman at the top of the order has done most of the scoring with 125 runs off two innings at a strike rate of 129. The other constant has been Salman Agha, who has scored 174 runs from two innings, including 134 in the previous match against South Africa. The same goes for Mohammad Rizwan, who contributed to the cause in the last match as well, scoring a huge 122. Getting him is going to give the batting order much-needed stability.
The middle order is also a strength, with Tayyab Tahir and Khushdil Shah bringing aggression as needed. Pakistan’s bowling attack has come good at the tournament but there have been some bright spots. In two matches, Shaheen Afridi has 5 wickets also maintaining his economy to 7.70. Naseem Shah and Abrar Ahmed have been good in patches and are on weekends. Haris Rauf could come in for Mohammad Hasnain in the final to strengthen the bowling unit.
Key Participants: Fakhar Zaman, Salman Agha, Shaheen Afridi
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New Zealand
The Black Caps are known for their disciplined game and adaptability and are coached by their experienced player Kane Williamson, who is a strong backbone for the team in the middle order. The batting order includes two players who can neutralize Pakistan’s potent bowling – Devon Conway and Glenn Phillips. Rachin Ravindra, who made waves in previous tournaments, adds added firepower at the top but having suffered a forehead injury, his playing status remains in question.
New Zealand’s bowling attack is still its major asset, led by Trent Boult and Lockie Ferguson, who is back from a hamstring strain. Captain and all-rounder, Mitchell Santner will be critical in being the foundation to keep Pakistan’s aggressive batting lineup at bay.
Key Participants: Glenn Phillips, Kane Williamson, Mitchell Santner
Head-to-Head Record: Pakistan Vs New Zealand
Here’s an overview of the Head-to-Head Record for Pakistan vs New Zealand 1st Match Group A Prediction :
Total number of matches played: 7
Wins (New Zealand): 4
Wins (Pakistan): 3
Last Encounter: 2017
Winner: New Zealand
Highest & Lowest Total:
- Highest: 320/7 scored by Pakistan
- Lowest: New Zealand scored 158
Key Players To Watch
Here’s an overview of the Key Players for Pakistan vs New Zealand 1st Match Group A Prediction:
Here is a list of key players to watch in Pakistan vs New Zealand 1st match, group A:
Pakistan
Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi & Fakhar Zaman
New Zealand
Mitchell Santner, Glenn Phillips, & Kane Williamson
Weather & Pitch Report: Pakistan vs New Zealand, 1st Match, Group A
Here’s an overview of the weather and pitch report for Pakistan vs New Zealand 1st Match Group A Prediction:
Pakistan vs New Zealand match will take place on February 19, 2025, at the National Stadium in Karachi. Both teams have to keep in mind the weather and pitch conditions against the backdrop of this highly-anticipated encounter.
Weather
Strong & dry conditions are expected in Karachi. The highest should be 88 degrees F (31 degrees C) and the low 64 degrees F (18 degrees C), with hazy sunshine all day long. These conditions are normal for Karachi in February, making it an ideal place to step out and play.
Pitch Report
Karachi’s National Stadium is known for its batting-friendly surface that provides excellent bounce and carrying, which helps stroke-making. At the beginning of a game, batters enjoy easy scoring on a true surface.
Predicted Xls: Pakistan vs New Zealand, 1st Match, Group A
Pakistan:
Mohammad Rizwan (c & wk), Fakhar Zaman, Salman Agha, Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir, Khushdil Shah, Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Hasnain/ Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed, and Naseem Shah.
New Zealand:
Kane Williamson, Will Young, Devon Conway, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham (wk), Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (c), Ben Sears, William O’Rourke and Matt Henry.
Final Prediction: Pakistan vs New Zealand 1st Match Group A
Here’s an overview for Pakistan vs New Zealand 1st Match Group A Prediction:
Considering the previous records and overall show in ICC events, New Zealand is favored to beat Pakistan in the 1st match of Group A of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. New Zealand put forward a consistent challenge as always, but their overall balanced side aided that challenge, both in batting and match bowling. Though Pakistan has a home advantage in this match, it is the experience of New Zealand and their recent form that makes them the favorite to win this encounter.
FAQs of Pakistan vs New Zealand 1st Match Group A Prediction
Q1. What is the timing of the Pakistan vs New Zealand match?
Ans. The encounter will take place on February 19, 2025, at 2:00 PM local time (9:00 AM GMT) at the National Stadium in Karachi.
Q2. What is the current form of both teams?
Ans. Pakistan has been in sublime form, defeating South Africa 3-0 in a recently played series. New Zealand, however, has been consistent with their performances, posing a threat to others.
Q3. What are the key players to look out for in this match?
Ans. Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman are catchalls with the bat, while Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf spearhead the bowling attack for Pakistan. Kane Williamson and Devon Conway are the mainstays while New Zealand has teammates in Matt Henry and Mitchell Santner in bowling.
Q4. What is the historical Pakistan-New Zealand head-to-head?
Ans. New Zealand had a slight edge over Pakistan in ODIs over the years. But in recent meetings, the matches have been tight, suggesting a hard-fought rivalry.
Disclaimer: The Pakistan vs New Zealand 1st Match Group A Prediction is based on the understanding, analysis, and instinct of the author. While making your prediction, consider the points mentioned, and make your own decision.
