Champions Trophy: Latham piles on Pakistan's woes with eighth ton

New Zealand's red-ball captain Tom Latham showcased his class, batting superbly to score a century against Pakistan in the opening encounter of the 2025 Champions Trophy. Latham reached his ton in 96 balls, smashing nine fours and two sixes, further strengthening New Zealand's position after Will Young's first overseas hundred laid a solid foundation for the Kiwis.

Meanwhile, Pakistan's bowling attack struggled, as frontline pacers Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah failed to maintain pressure after New Zealand lost three early wickets. Their inconsistent line and length allowed the Kiwi batsmen to capitalize and dominate the innings.

New Zealand’s openers began cautiously, reaching 39 runs before Abrar Ahmed struck, clean bowling Devon Conway for 10 off 17 balls.


Pakistan then got a massive breakthrough as Naseem Shah dismissed Kane Williamson for just 1 run off 2 balls, sending the Kiwi skipper back to the pavilion early.

Daryl Mitchell, after a patient 10 off 24 balls, looked set to settle in, but Haris Rauf had other plans. The pacer struck in the 17th over, handing Pakistan their third crucial wicket and keeping their momentum alive.