The wait is ended as the Champions Trophy 2025, which will feature a matchup between two clubs who frequently face one another, is scheduled to start on Wednesday, February 19. At the National Stadium in Karachi, the hosts, Pakistan, will play New Zealand in an attempt to secure the vital victory from the opening encounter.
Given their recent victory against Pakistan in the tri-nation event, New Zealand will have the psychological advantage. The Kiwis won the tri-series and will be quite confident going into the Champions Trophy. The injury to their star player, Rachin Ravindra, is still the team’s biggest problem, though.
Status of Rachin Ravindra’s injuries
The Kiwi all-rounder was removed from the pitch as a precaution after being trapped on his head during the opening game of the tri-series against Pakistan. He was kept under supervision by the Kiwi physicians and did not participate in the last two games. Will Ravindra play against Pakistan in the next Champions Trophy match?
The Kiwis may breathe a sigh of relief as Ravindra participated in the pregame training sessions and appeared to be in good rhythm, despite the questions surrounding his participation in the major event opening. His wounds had partially healed by the time he was included in the team picture session. The Kiwi player has a good chance of being healthy enough to participate in the opening game.
New Zealand is shaken before the match against Pakistan.
Lockie Ferguson, New Zealand’s best bowler, was replaced by Kyle Jamieson, who had a career blighted by injuries, when Ferguson was ruled out of the tournament due to a foot injury prior to the Pakistan match.
Pakistan will be the Kiwis’ first opponent in the competition. On February 24, they will play Bangladesh. On March 2, they will play India in their last group stage encounter.
