20 February
Sports Desk
Ludhiana
Sandeep Dhand
New Zealand started their Champions Trophy campaign with a commanding 60-run victory over hosts Pakistan in the opening match. Chasing a challenging target of 321 runs, Pakistan was bowled out for 260 runs.
The tournament was inaugurated earlier by Pakistan President Asif Zardari at the National Stadium. Pakistan’s Khushdil Shah was the top scorer for his team with 69 runs, but his efforts were not enough to secure a win.
Batting first, New Zealand posted a strong total of 320 for five, thanks to brilliant centuries from opener Will Young and captain Tom Latham. Young played a solid knock of 107 off 113 balls, hitting 12 fours and a six. Latham remained unbeaten on 118, smashing 10 fours and three sixes. Glenn Phillips also contributed with a quickfire 61 off 39 balls.
New Zealand faced early trouble, losing three wickets for 73 runs in the 17th over, but the partnership between Young and Latham helped them recover and set up a strong total.
With this victory, New Zealand has taken an early lead in the tournament, while Pakistan will look to bounce back in their next match.