AUS vs ENG: The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is gearing up for an intense clash as England and Australia lock horns on Saturday at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.

Australia and England, two of cricket’s fiercest rivals, will be eager to kick off their campaign with a dominant win.

Under the leadership of Jos Buttler, England is looking to make a statement win after their heavy 3-0 ODI series loss to India.

With Jofra Archer and Mark Wood fully fit, England’s pace attack now appears far more intimidating. The ever-reliable Joe Root adds valuable experience, while Harry Brook and Liam Livingstone bring an explosive edge to the batting lineup.

Ben Duckett and Phil Salt form an aggressive opening pair, while the promising Jamie Smith will be eager to make an impact as well.

Adil Rashid, the spin maestro, will play a crucial role in restricting Australia’s explosive batting, but it’s up to Buttler to lead from the front and revive England’s fortunes in white-ball cricket.

Australia enters the tournament facing their own set of challenges. Regular captain Pat Cummins, along with Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Marsh, all sidelined, leaving the Aussies with an inexperienced bowling attack.

Despite the challenges, under Steve Smith’s leadership, Australia remains a formidable side. With Marnus Labuschagne and Alex Carey stabilizing the batting, Travis Head and Glenn Maxwell poised to ignite the attack, they are still a dangerous side.

Spencer Johnson takes on the responsibility of filling Starc’s role, while Adam Zampa and Tanveer Sangha will need to weave their magic on a pitch likely to favor the batters. 

• The Gaddafi Stadium is set to offer plenty of runs, but under the lights, the pacers may still have a crucial impact on the game.

AUS vs ENG: Squads

AUSTRALIA

Steve Smith (C), Travis Head, Alex Carey, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Marnus Labuschagne, Aaron Hardie, Josh Inglis, Glenn Maxwell, Spencer Johnson, Tanveer Sangha, Matthew Short, Sean Abbott, and Adam Zampa.

ENGLAND

Jos Buttler (C), Phil Salt, Tom Banton, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Ben Duckett, Joe Root, Jamie Overton, Jamie Smith, Liam Livingstone, Adil Rashid, Gus Atkinson, Saqib Mahmood, Mark Wood, and Jofra Archer.

Also Read: South Africa Trashes Afghanistan In Champions Trophy Clash

AFG Vs SA: South Africa put on a dominant display in the Champions Trophy, crushing Afghanistan by a massive 107 runs at National Bank Stadium in Karachi. 

Afghanistan had a rough outing in this game. Their fielding was below par, and their bowling couldn’t make an impact. To make matters worse, their batting collapsed against South Africa’s strong bowling attack.

Rahmat Shah fought a lone battle, scoring a determined 90 off 92 balls, including 9 boundaries and a six. However, his impressive knock came to a heartbreaking end when he was dismissed by Kagiso Rabada, just shy of his well-deserved century.

No other batter managed to score more than 20 runs, as they all faltered under pressure. In the end, Afghanistan suffered a heavy defeat, losing by a significant margin of 107 runs.

For South Africa, Kagiso Rabada was the star performer, finishing with 3 wickets for just 36 runs. Lungi Ngidi and Wiaan Mulder each claimed 2 wickets, while Marco Jansen and Keshav Maharaj took one wicket apiece.

AFG Vs SA: 1st Inning

Earlier in the game, South Africa got a decent start. Although Tony de Zorzi was dismissed early for just 11 off 11 balls, Ryan Rickelton played a brilliant knock, carrying his innings through to score a stunning century.

South Africa’s top order was exceptional, with four out of their five top batters producing memorable innings. Ryan Rickelton led the charge with a century, scoring 103 off 106 balls, while captain Temba Bavuma (58 off 76), Rassie van der Dussen (52 off 46), and Aiden Markram (52 off 36) each blasted a half-century.

Their combined effort led South Africa to post a big total of 315/6 in 50 overs. 

For Afghanistan, Mohammad Nabi claimed two wickets for 58 runs, while Fazalhaq Farooqi, Azmatullah Omarzai, and Noor Ahmad each took one wicket.

Also Read: IND Vs BAN: Bangladesh Falls To A 6-Wicket Defeat In Champions Trophy

IND vs BAN: India started their Champions Trophy campaign with a commanding performance, defeating Bangladesh by 6 wickets in the opening match at Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

India have made a strong start in the Champions Trophy! While the win wasn’t a dominating one, it was comfortable enough. As for Bangladesh, they showed great fight with the ball, but the game was effectively lost during the first 10 overs of their innings.

Set to chase down 229, India confidently began their innings, and that confidence was evident when Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill struck some early boundaries. Rohit took the aggressive approach as always, while Gill played some elegant shots of his own.

The pair put on 69 runs before Rohit was dismissed for 41 by Taskin Ahmed, just as the first powerplay was coming to an end.

India capitalized on the middle overs, scoring quickly, something Bangladesh couldn’t manage during their innings. Meanwhile, Rishad Hossain bowled a brilliant spell, dismissing Virat Kohli for 22 of 38 deliveries. 

Following that, Mustafizur Rahman got Shreyas Iyer out for 15 runs, but Gill ensured he took on the responsibility ofanchoring the innings.

Shortly after the 30th over, Rishad claimed the wicket of Axar Patel, leaving India at 144/4, still requiring a solid partnership to secure the win. Gill played a brilliant knock to bring up a century, further solidifying his position as the world’s top-ranked ODI batter.

KL Rahul also played a key role towards the end. Reaching the 40s, the duo formed an unbroken partnership of 87 runs, guiding India to victory.

Also Read: Fakhar Zaman Injury: A Major Setback For Pakistan Ahead Of India’s Clash

IND vs BAN: 1st Inning

Earlier in the match, Bangladesh got off to a disastrous start with the bat, and India took full advantage with a clinical bowling display. Mohammad Shami was the standout performer, continuing his impressive form in ICC ODI tournaments, finishing with a remarkable five-wicket haul.

The Bangladeshi top-order faced heavy criticism once again as they played some careless shots. During the middle overs, the Indian spinners did exactly what was expected of them.

However, Towhid Hridoy and Jacker Ali stepped up to rescue the Tigers. After both had received a lifeline, the pair mounted a strong fightback. Hridoy smashed his first ODI century, while Jacker Ali added a valuable fifty, helping Bangladesh reach a total of 228 but it was not proved enough. 

Also Read: The Clash Of Rivals In Champions Trophy 2025

Fakhar Zaman Injury: The ICC has given its approval for Imam-ul-Haq to replace injured Fakhar Zaman in the Champions Trophy squad ahead of Pakistan’s crucial match against India on 23rd February in Dubai.

After young left-handed Pakistani batter Saim Ayub was sidelined from the Champions Trophy squad due to injury, Pakistan has now suffered another significant blow with opening batter Fakhar Zaman also ruled out for the remaining matches of the tournament following an injury sustained during the game against New Zealand.

Fakhar’s injury has dealt a major blow to Pakistan’s chances of defending their Champions Trophy title.

Fakhar Zaman sustained the injury on only the second ball of the tournament while chasing a cover drive from Will Young off Shaheen Shah Afridi.

He was unable to open the innings, not because of his injury, but due to ICC playing regulations, and instead batted at number four.

After several visits from the team doctor and taking painkillers, Fakhar Zaman came out to bat. However, he couldn’tproduce a standout performance due to ongoing discomfort, getting out for 24 off 41 balls.

Following Fakhar’s injury, Pakistan has brought in Imam-ul-Haq, who last played for the national team in December 2023. Now, Imam will travel to Dubai with the team ahead of their crucial match against India on February 23 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

Pakistan’s Updated Squad

Mohammad Rizwan (C), Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam, Tayyab Tahir, Saud Shakeel, Salman Ali Agha, Khushdil Shah, Usman Khan, Faheem Ashraf, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Hasnain, and Shaheen Shah Afridi.

ALSO READ: IND Vs BAN: The Clash Of Rivals In Champions Trophy 2025

PAK VS NZ: New Zealand defeated defending champions Pakistan by 60 runs in the opening match of the Champions Trophy on 19th February in Karachi.

The Kiwis have defeated the defending champions! New Zealand maintain their dominance, overcoming Pakistan for the third time in just 10 days on their home ground. They are early favorites in the tournament.

Pakistan, on the other hand, have much to reflect on and will be concerned about Fakhar Zaman’s injury, although there were moments of promise. A statement win for the Black Caps.

Pakistan never truly found their rhythm in the chase. The absence of Fakhar Zaman at the top proved costly, as the openers lacked intent and struggled in the powerplay, scoring just 22 runs while losing two wickets.

Babar Azam’s half-century seemed oddly restrained as the required run rate continued to climb. Captain Mohammad Rizwan was dismissed by a brilliant catch from Glenn Phillips.

Salman Ali Agha’s cameo, along with Khushdil Shah’s fighting knock provided a glimmer of hope. However, without substantial support, the target remained out of reach and they ultimately fell short by 60 runs.

PAK VS NZ: 1st Inning

Earlier in the match, New Zealand delivered a spectacular batting performance, with Will Young and Tom Latham both scoring centuries. Glenn Phillips added the finishing touch with a blistering fifty, leading the Black Caps to a commanding total of 320.

Pakistan had a few bright moments, with Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah taking two wickets each, while Abrar Ahmed also contributed one. However, their death bowling issues reappeared at the most inopportune moment.

New Zealand delivered a top-class bowling performance, supported by electrifying fielding, reinforcing their dominance once again. Glenn Phillips set the tone with a breathtaking catch, while Matt Henry and O’Rourke restricted the batters early, each claiming a wicket.

The spin trio of Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner, and Glenn Phillips took charge in the middle overs, with Santner and O’Rourke finishing with three wickets each. Nathan Smith also made a contribution, while Henry delivered a superb performance for New Zealand.

Also Read: PAK VS NZ: The Ultimate ICC Champions Trophy 2025 Opening Battle

PAK VS NZ: The ninth edition of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will begin today, featuring eight teams competing in the tournament.

New Zealand and Pakistan will clash in the opening game of the Tournament, which is scheduled for February 19 at the recently upgraded National Bank Stadium in Karachi.

Pakistan is going to host the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, marking its first major cricket event since 1996.

Earlier in this month, Pakistan and New Zealand faced off in two ODIs as part of a Tri-Series. The Black Caps won both matches, including the final, claiming the title of the tri-series champions and ending their preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on a high note.

PAK VS NZ: Head-to-head records

The two teams have competed in 118 ODIs so far, with Pakistan holding the upper hand in records.

The Green Shirts have secured 61 victories out of 118 ODIs against the Black Caps, while New Zealand has won 53 matches against Pakistan. One game ended in a tie, and three matches had no result.

PAK VS NZ: Match Details

• Toss: 02:00 pm ( Pakistan Standard Time)
  • 02:30 pm ( India Standard Time)
  • 10:00 pm ( New Zealand Time)
  • 04:00 am ( USA Time)
• Match Start: After half hour of toss.
• Date: 19 February, 2025.
• Day: Wednesday
• Venue: National Bank Stadium, Karachi.

PAK VS NZ: Squads

PAKISTAN

Mohammad Rizwan (C), Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir, Kamran Ghulam, Faheem Ashraf, Salman Ali Agha, Khushdil Shah, Usman Khan, Abrar Ahmed, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Hasnain, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Haris Rauf.

NEW ZEALAND

Mitchell Santner (C), Tom Latham, Mark Chapman, Kane Williamson, Devon Conway, Michael Bracewell, Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Nathan Smith, Will Young, Matt Henry, Jacob Duffy and Lockie Ferguson. 

Also Read: New Zealand Won The Tri-Nation Series 2025

ZIM vs IRE: The third and final ODI between Zimbabwe and Ireland is scheduled for 18th February 2025 at the Harare Sports Club in Zimbabwe.

The stage is set for the third ODI between Ireland and Zimbabwe on Tuesday. Brian Bennett led the hosts to a win in the series opener, while Ireland made a strong comeback in the second ODI to level the series, setting up an exciting final match.

A disciplined bowling effort from the visitors limited Zimbabwe to 245, and they easily chased the target, finishing with six wickets remaining and eight balls to spare.

Unlike the first game, Ireland’s new-ball bowlers made an early impact, with Mark Adair leading the way. Together with Graham Hume, he will be crucial in establishing the tone with the ball once again. Josh Little has remained relatively quiet so far and will be eager to step up and make an impact in this important match.

Andy Balbirnie has yet to make an impact with the bat, but Paul Stirling, George Dockrell, and Lorcan Tucker have all contributed, while Curtis Campher has impressed with both bat and ball.

For Zimbabwe, batting was their undoing in the second ODI, with several players unable to capitalize on their promising starts. The bowlers also faced challenges in maintaining control, giving away 23 extras in total.

The hosts will require a team effort from Brian Bennett, Wessly Madhevere, and Sikandar Raza, the latter two coming off fifties in the previous match.

With the ball, Richard Ngarava, Blessing Muzarabani, and Trevor Gwandu will need to produce a more disciplined display to keep Ireland under control.

Also Read: ZIM Vs IRE: Stirling And Campher Shine In 6-Wicket Win

ZIM Vs IRE: Captain Paul Stirling scored 89 off 102 deliveries, while Curtis Campher contributed 63 off 94 balls, leading Ireland to a successful chase of 249-4, surpassing Zimbabwe’s 245 with eight balls remaining.

Ireland leveled the ODI series against Zimbabwe by winning the second match at Harare Sports Club, setting up an exciting showdown for the series decider, scheduled for 18 February.

It was an easy chase for Ireland! Their bowlers delivered a commendable effort in the first innings, restricting Zimbabwe to under 250, and the batters followed up with a solid performance. Although they lost Andrew Balbirnie early, Paul Stirling and Curtis Campher stepped up with brilliant knocks.

Paul Stirling played a stellar knock, scoring (89 off 102 balls), including 8 fours and 2 sixes. Meanwhile, Curtis Campher showcased his all-round skills, taking 3 wickets for just 13 runs in the first innings and then blasting a crucial half-century (63 off 94) while chasing the target.

Their partnership brought Ireland very close to victory. After playing match-winning innings, both Stirling and Campher were dismissed. However, Lorcan Tucker (36*) and George Dockrell (20*) stepped up, guiding the Ireland Cricket team across the finish line to secure the win.

ZIM Vs IRE: 1st inning

Earlier, after being put to bat, Zimbabwe struggled to put up a sufficient total, finishing with 245 runs in 48.4 overs.

This total was primarily due to a crucial fourth-wicket partnership between Wessly Madhevere (61 off 70) and Sikandar Raza (58 off 75), which helped the hosts reach 245.

Wessly Madhevere was the highest run-scorer for the hosts. 

For Ireland, Mark Adair was the standout performer with figures of 4-54, while Curtis Campher finished with impressive figures of 3-13. Additionally, Andy McBrine, Graham Hume, and Joshua Little each claimed a wicket.

Also Read: New Zealand Won The Tri-Nation Series 2025

PAK Vs NZ: New Zealand cruised to a comfortable five-wicket victory over hosts Pakistan in the final of the 2025 Tri-Nation ODI series, successfully chasing down the 243-run target in just 45.2 overs at the National Stadium in Karachi.

The win in this series provided New Zealand with a boost as they prepare for their ICC Champions Trophy opener against Pakistan at this venue on Wednesday.

New Zealand has proven their superiority in the tri-nation series, showcasing unmatched dominance and flair. If this was an audition for the ICC Champions Trophy, they’ve aced it with flying colors, looking like strong contenders. On the other hand, Pakistan has received a reality check, there’s a lot to address before the major tournament.

Despite an early setback, New Zealand made the chase look effortless! Kane Williamson and Devon Conway set a strong platform, with Tom Latham and Daryl Mitchell taking charge and guiding the team with assurance. Mitchell’s half-century was crucial, but he fell before the finish, as did Latham after a fortunate knock. In the end, Glenn Phillips, the hero of the first game, wrapped up the victory.

Pakistan will be disappointed with their bowling and fielding performance! Naseem Shah made an early breakthrough and picked up another, while Salman Ali Agha and Abrar Ahmed contributed, but they failed to maintain consistent pressure. However, the real damage was done in the field—too many dropped catches and careless moments proved costly. They’ll need to address these problems quickly as they prepare for tougher challenges ahead.

PAK Vs NZ – 1st Inning

Earlier in the match, Pakistan posted a competitive total of 243, with valuable contributions from Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha, along with some late fireworks from the lower order. However, New Zealand’s bowlers were in outstanding form! O’Rourke was the star, taking an impressive four-wicket haul. Mitchell Santner and Michael Bracewell each claimed two wickets, while Nathan Smith and Jacob Duffy also made key contributions, ensuring Pakistan never gained control.

Also Read: Sri Lanka Seals ODI Victory By 174 Runs