With Pakistan playing New Zealand in the opening match of the Champions Trophy 2025 on Wednesday, February 19, at Karachi's National Bank Stadium, the mega tournament is officially underway. Due to an injury that kept him out of the tri-series final versus New Zealand, there were questions about Haris Rauf's ability to play in this game. He did make an appearance in the playing XI against the Kiwis, much to the relief of the team and supporters. He performed poorly with the ball, though, and in the process assisted Pakistan in achieving an embarrassing equalization.
Haris Rauf and Pakistan equal embarrassing record
In his 10 overs against New Zealand, Haris Rauf conceded an incredible 83 runs despite taking two wickets. As a result, the standout right-arm fast bowler became the second bowler from Pakistan in history to give up more than 80 runs in a Champions Trophy innings. Pakistan has now equalled the record of South Africa and Sri Lanka to have the most bowlers that have given more than 80 runs in an innings.
The other bowler from Pakistan to give up more than 80 runs in a Champions Trophy match is Wahab Riaz. He actually holds the record for conceding the most runs in a Champions Trophy match, having conceded 87 against India in Birmingham in 2017.
Young and Latham power NZ to 320 runs
Pakistan chose to bowl first after winning the toss. With 39 runs for the first wicket, Devon Conway and Will Young gave the Kiwis a respectable start. Conway was then taken out by Abrar Ahmed. After dismissing the dangerous Kane Williamson for just one run, Naseem Shah carried on Pakistan's wicket-taking rampage. Daryl Mitchell was then out for just 10 runs by Haris Rauf.
After that, Will Young and Tom Latham established a 118-run partnership that dominated the New Zealand innings. With a score of 107, Will Young was dismissed. The innings was then pushed by Latham and Glenn Philips. Philips hit a rapid 61 off 39 deliveries, while Latham was still in at 118. In their 50 overs, the Kiwis amassed a huge 320/5.