Author name: SAJAD YOUSUF

 Match Prediction, Pre-Match Review & Probable Playing XI: Pakistan vs New Zealand, ICC Champions Trophy 2025 The Stage is Set The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is finally here, and the tournament opener promises to be an electrifying contest between Pakistan and New Zealand at the National Stadium in Karachi. With the tournament carrying a knockout feel right from the start, both teams will be keen to set the tone with a winning performance on Wednesday, February 19. Pakistan’s Home Advantage vs. New Zealand’s Recent Dominance Pakistan enters the tournament as defending champions but curiously not as outright favorites. The team’s inconsistency, coupled with frequent off-field disruptions, has cast doubts on their ability to retain the title. However, with stalwarts like Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi in their ranks, they possess match-winners capable of turning the tide on any given day. New Zealand, on the other hand, have had Pakistan’s number in recent meetings, winning three of their last four ODI encounters. They are a team that thrives in ICC events, despite lacking the sheer depth of resources enjoyed by some of their rivals. Ranked fourth in the world, the Kiwis will be confident of their chances but face a stiff challenge in unfamiliar conditions. Venue & Conditions The National Stadium has been a batting-friendly venue in recent times, with an average first-innings score of 289 in ODIs since 2023. Interestingly, the toss has played a negligible role in determining outcomes, as teams batting first and second have won four games each in the last eight matches at the venue. Expect a high-scoring contest where both teams will look to capitalize on their batting depth. Team News Pakistan: Pakistan is likely to stick with the same XI that faced New Zealand in the warm-up match, despite their loss. Haris Rauf, who suffered a muscular strain during the tri-series, has been declared fit and will take his place in the lineup. Captain Mohammad Rizwan has emphasized stability over constant chopping and changing, meaning they will rely on their core unit to deliver. Probable XI: Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam/Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (c/wk), Salman Agha, Tayyab Tahir, Khushdil Shah, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf. New Zealand: New Zealand has suffered multiple injury setbacks leading up to the tournament. Lockie Ferguson has been ruled out with a foot injury, while Ben Sears is also unavailable due to a hamstring issue. Kyle Jamieson has been drafted in as a replacement, and Rachin Ravindra’s availability remains uncertain after his head injury. Probable XI: Will Young/Rachin Ravindra, Devon Conway, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham (wk), Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (c), Matt Henry, Nathan Smith/Jacob Duffy, Will O’Rourke. Key Battles to Watch Naseem Shah vs. Devon Conway: Conway has struggled against Naseem, having been dismissed thrice in as many games by the young pacer. Pakistan will look to exploit this weakness early on. Tom Latham’s Karachi Form: The New Zealand wicketkeeper may not have been in his best touch in 2025, but he has an impressive record at this venue, scoring three half-centuries in seven innings. Pakistan’s Middle-Order Stability: The hosts’ batting reshuffle could prove crucial, as they have opted for a more aggressive approach in recent matches. How Salman Agha and Tayyab Tahir handle New Zealand’s pace attack in the middle overs will be key. Match Prediction Pakistan will have the advantage of playing at home, but New Zealand’s recent form against them cannot be ignored. The Kiwis have played seven ODIs at this venue since the start of 2023, giving them considerable exposure to conditions. However, Pakistan’s familiarity with the surface, coupled with their explosive batting and potent bowling attack, makes them slight favorites to edge out their opponents. If New Zealand can negate Pakistan’s pace threat early and put up a solid total, they will be in with a real shot. But given the high-scoring nature of the venue, Pakistan’s superior firepower with both bat and ball should give them the upper hand. Prediction: Pakistan to win in a high-scoring contest.

 Champions Trophy 2025 Set for Global Live Streaming via ICC.tv and Radio Broadcasts Worldwide Cricket fans around the globe are in for a treat as the highly anticipated 2025 ICC Men’s Champions Trophy gears up to deliver thrilling action to audiences worldwide. In a landmark move to expand the sport’s reach, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced that ICC.tv, its official digital platform, will offer free live streaming of all 15 tournament matches in over 80 territories. Combined with extensive radio coverage in key cricketing nations, this initiative ensures fans from diverse regions can tune in to every boundary, wicket, and historic moment.   ### Live Streaming: ICC.tv Brings Cricket to Millions   The ICC is prioritizing accessibility for the 2025 Champions Trophy, with ICC.tv serving as the primary hub for free live streaming in more than 80 territories. Markets including Nepal, Japan, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan will have unrestricted access to all matches, allowing fans in these regions to enjoy elite cricket without subscription barriers. This strategy not only caters to established cricket-loving nations like Sri Lanka and Afghanistan but also aims to ignite passion in emerging markets such as Japan, where the sport is steadily growing.   By offering free access, the ICC hopes to strengthen ICC.tv as a go-to destination for cricket content while broadening the sport’s global footprint. This approach aligns with the organization’s long-term vision to make cricket a truly inclusive, global sport. Fans can stream matches on smartphones, tablets, or computers, ensuring flexibility for viewers whether they’re at home, work, or on the move.   ### Radio Broadcasts: Tradition Meets Convenience   For fans who prefer the nostalgic charm of radio or lack reliable internet access, the Champions Trophy will also be broadcast globally via partnerships with leading radio networks. Key coverage includes:   – United Kingdom: BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra   – India: All India Radio   – Pakistan: HUM 106.2FM   – UAE: Talk 100.3FM and Big 106.2   – Bangladesh: Radio Shadhin 92.4 and Radio Bhumi 92.8   – Sri Lanka: Lakhanda Radio   These partnerships ensure that even in remote areas, fans can stay connected to live commentary, expert analysis, and the electric atmosphere of the tournament.   ### A Win for Global Cricket Fandom   The 2025 Champions Trophy’s broadcast strategy reflects the ICC’s commitment to inclusivity and innovation. By leveraging digital streaming and traditional radio, the council bridges the gap between tech-savvy audiences and those in regions with limited connectivity. Free access on ICC.tv eliminates financial barriers, inviting new fans to engage with cricket while rewarding loyal supporters with seamless viewing experiences.   For cricket boards and advertisers, this expanded reach presents opportunities to tap into underserved markets, fostering long-term growth. Meanwhile, fans in territories previously reliant on expensive pay-TV subscriptions can now enjoy world-class cricket at no cost.   ### How to Tune In   – Streaming: Visit [ICC.tv](https://www.icc.tv) or download the app (check availability in your region).   – Radio: Check local listings for frequencies and timings.   Full details of broadcasters and regional availability can be found on the ICC’s official Champions Trophy 2025 hub [here](insert-link).   As the tournament approaches, the ICC’s dual focus on digital accessibility and traditional broadcasting promises to unite cricket enthusiasts across continents, making the Champions Trophy a celebration of sport, culture, and shared passion. Whether through a screen or a radio speaker, the world will be listening.

  Where to Watch ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in India: TV, Radio, and Mobile Streaming Cricket fans in India are gearing up for the highly anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025, set to begin on February 19, 2025. The tournament, which is considered the second-most prestigious ODI event after the World Cup, will be played in Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). India, led by Rohit Sharma, will play all their matches in Dubai due to political tensions with Pakistan. For fans eager to catch every moment of the action, here’s a complete guide on where to watch the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 live in India across TV, mobile, and radio. Television Broadcast in India Indian viewers can enjoy live telecast of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on the Star Sports Network and Sports18 channels. Matches will be available in multiple languages, including: English Hindi Tamil Telugu Kannada Star Sports has been the official broadcaster of ICC events in India, ensuring high-quality coverage with expert analysis, pre-match discussions, and post-match highlights. Live Streaming on Mobile and Digital Platforms For those who prefer to watch on the go, the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will be live-streamed on JioHotstar. Exclusive Features on JioHotstar: Live streaming across 16 feeds Commentary available in nine languages: English, Hindi, Marathi, Haryanvi, Bengali, Bhojpuri, Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada Multi-camera angles for an immersive experience Indian Sign Language feed and Audio Descriptive Commentary for accessibility Additionally, the MaxView vertical feed, a unique mobile viewing feature, will be available in Hindi and English, making it easier to watch matches on smartphones. Live Radio Commentary in India For cricket fans who enjoy listening to commentary while on the move, the All India Radio (AIR) will provide free live radio coverage of all matches. How to Listen: Tune in to All India Radio (AIR) Visit the ICC Match Centre on icc-cricket.com for free live audio streaming This is a great option for those commuting or unable to watch the matches live on TV or mobile. Key India Matches to Watch Out For India vs Bangladesh – February 20, 2025 (Dubai) India vs Pakistan – February 23, 2025 (Dubai) India vs New Zealand – March 2, 2025 (Dubai) With Star Sports providing high-quality TV coverage, JioHotstar offering seamless mobile streaming, and All India Radio delivering real-time commentary, Indian cricket fans have multiple ways to stay connected to the action. Get ready for thrilling cricket as the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 unfolds!

  Champions Trophy 2025 opner : Pakistan  Vs New Zealand The 2025 ICC Men’s Champions Trophy is just around the corner, set to take place from February 19 to March 9 in Pakistan and the UAE. This eight-team, 19-day tournament promises thrilling cricket action, marking the return of the Champions Trophy after its last edition in 2017. This year’s event is historic in several ways, with Pakistan hosting its first global ICC event since 1996, while Dubai will serve as a neutral venue for some of the matches. The Hybrid Model: Pakistan and UAE In a unique and innovative approach, the 2025 edition of the Champions Trophy will be played in a hybrid model. Pakistan and the UAE will host matches across four cities: Lahore, Karachi, Rawalpindi, and Dubai. This move not only reflects the growing popularity of cricket in Pakistan but also ensures that the teams get to experience diverse playing conditions that will challenge their skills across different surfaces and climates. Group Breakdown and Teams The eight teams competing in the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 have been split into two groups: Group A: Bangladesh, India, New Zealand, and Pakistan Group B: Afghanistan, Australia, England, and South Africa This division sets the stage for some exciting encounters, with rivalries and high stakes in every game. The tournament opener will see Pakistan face off against New Zealand in Karachi on February 19, 2025, in what promises to be an exciting start to the competition. Pakistan’s Campaign Pakistan enters the tournament as a team with a mixed record in recent international competitions. In the tri-nation series held in Pakistan, they struggled to find consistency. Key players like Fakhar Zaman, Mohammad Rizwan, and Salman Ali Agha showed glimpses of brilliance, but Pakistan’s overall performance raised some concerns ahead of the Champions Trophy. Fakhar Zaman: Scored 84 runs in one match but struggled in subsequent games with scores of 10 and 41. Salman Ali Agha: Was a bright spot, accumulating 40, 45, and 134 runs in his respective matches. Mohammad Rizwan: Contributed with scores of 46, 122, and 46 runs. Despite some stellar batting performances from Rizwan and Agha, Pakistan’s bowling and fielding needed refinement. Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Abrar Ahmed all contributed with the ball, but Pakistan still needs to fine-tune their bowling attack to compete at the highest level. New Zealand’s Strengths and Challenges New Zealand, on the other hand, enters the tournament as one of the favorites. Having consistently performed well in recent years, the Black Caps are eager to bring home their first Champions Trophy title since 2000. They are coming off a successful tri-series campaign in Pakistan, where they won three matches with commanding performances. Key players such as Kane Williamson, Devon Conway, and Glenn Phillips have been in scintillating form, contributing significantly with the bat. Kane Williamson: Scored 133 and 58 runs in the tri-series, leading his team from the front. Devon Conway: Accumulated 48 and 97 runs in his appearances, providing stability to the top order. Daryl Mitchell: Made key contributions, with scores of 57 and 81 runs. Glenn Phillips: Played an explosive knock of 106 runs, showcasing his ability to accelerate the game. The Black Caps also boast a strong bowling attack with players like Mitchell Santner, Lockie Ferguson, and Matt Henry leading the charge. The absence of key pacer Trent Boult, along with the recent retirement of Tim Southee, means New Zealand’s pace attack is slightly inexperienced. However, fast bowlers like Will O’Rourke and Nathan Smith are expected to step up and play crucial roles in this major tournament. Key Players to Watch Shaheen Afridi (Pakistan): One of the most potent fast bowlers in world cricket, Afridi will be a key figure for Pakistan. His ability to strike early and swing the ball will be crucial for Pakistan in their bid for the trophy. Kane Williamson (New Zealand): The New Zealand captain’s calm demeanor and ability to anchor the innings will be vital in pressure situations. Williamson’s leadership and batting prowess are a huge asset to the Black Caps. Mohammad Rizwan (Pakistan): As one of Pakistan’s most consistent performers in recent years, Rizwan’s contributions with the bat could make all the difference in high-pressure matches. Devon Conway (New Zealand): A steady presence in the top order, Conway’s ability to build innings and adapt to different conditions will be crucial in setting up partnerships for his team. The Venue: National Stadium, Karachi  One of the key venues for the Champions Trophy will be the National Stadium in Karachi. Known for its flat pitches and high-scoring games, Karachi promises to offer some exciting battles. The pitch typically favors batting, with the average first-innings score being 237 runs and the second-innings score at 202. While pacers may get some assistance with the new ball, spinners will play a key role in the middle overs, making it crucial for bowlers to maintain tight lines and lengths. The stadium has witnessed some of the best performances in ODI history, including Sir Viv Richards’ stunning knock of 181 runs against Sri Lanka in 1987 and Wasim Akram’s 5/15. These historic moments highlight the importance of Karachi as a venue for major ICC events. Weather and Conditions The weather in Karachi on February 19, 2025, is expected to be hazy with a light breeze, perfect conditions for cricket. The temperature will hover around 15°C, and the low probability of precipitation (0%) means that weather disruptions are unlikely to affect the game. Conclusion    With the tournament set to feature some of the world’s best teams and players, the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 promises to be a thrilling spectacle. Whether it’s the high-powered batting of Pakistan and New Zealand or the strategic play of teams like England and South Africa, this tournament is bound to showcase the very best of international cricket. As the countdown to the opening match between Pakistan and New Zealand begins, cricket fans all over the world are eagerly anticipating what promises to

The Champions Trophy is back, but not everyone is celebrating its return. The tournament, often called the “Mini World Cup,” is set to make its ninth appearance in February 2025 after an eight-year break. This time, Pakistan will host the event, but the excitement around it seems muted. The rise of T20 franchise cricket, with its fast-paced action and big money, has pushed the 50-over format to the sidelines. England’s captain, Jos Buttler, recently highlighted this shift after losing a game to India in Nagpur. He mentioned how the ODI format is struggling to stay relevant in the face of T20’s growing popularity. Buttler, however, still believes that winning a 50-over World Cup holds more prestige than a T20 World Cup. But he also admitted that this might change in the future. The Champions Trophy, despite being an ICC event, doesn’t carry the same weight as the World Cup. It’s shorter, taking up less time in the crowded cricket calendar, but this also makes it feel less significant. Over the years, the tournament has been moved, canceled, and brought back, almost like an afterthought. A Look Back at the Champions Trophy’s History The Champions Trophy has had an interesting journey since its inception in 1998. The first edition was held in Bangladesh, despite concerns about floods in Dhaka. That tournament was a success, earning around $10 million and giving Bangladesh cricket a much-needed boost. The hosts even kept the gate receipts, which helped them become a Test-playing nation just two years later. The event also saw some of the game’s biggest stars, like Sachin Tendulkar, Ricky Ponting, and Jacques Kallis, in action. In 2000, the tournament moved to Nairobi, where Kenya’s surprising run to the semi-finals of the 2003 World Cup was partly inspired by their Champions Trophy experience. Over the years, the tournament has had its moments, but it has always struggled to establish itself as a premier event. It often feels like a second-tier competition, lacking the prestige and marketing power of the World Cup. Challenges for the 2025 Edition The 2025 Champions Trophy faces its own set of challenges. Some of the biggest names in cricket, like Jasprit Bumrah, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, and Anrich Nortje, will be missing from their respective squads. This absence of star power could further dampen the tournament’s appeal. Another major issue is India’s refusal to tour Pakistan due to political tensions. This has created logistical headaches for the organizers. India’s absence would be a huge blow to the tournament, both in terms of quality and viewership. However, if India does participate, they will enter as one of the favorites. The team is in great form, having recently dominated England, and will look to add another trophy to their cabinet after winning the T20 World Cup in 2022. Australia, the two-time champions, are also strong contenders despite missing their frontline bowlers. South Africa, with their explosive batting lineup, cannot be counted out either. Their recent high-scoring match against Pakistan, where over 700 runs were scored, suggests that the 2025 tournament could see some big totals. The Format and Future of the Tournament The 2025 Champions Trophy will feature a league format with two groups. The top eight teams from the 2023 World Cup will compete, ensuring a high level of competition. However, the tournament’s place in the cricket calendar often feels uncertain. It’s like a confused runner stuck in the middle of the pitch, unsure of where to go. Despite these challenges, the Champions Trophy refuses to fade away. The 2029 edition is already scheduled to be held in India, a country where cricket is nothing short of a religion. This could give the tournament the boost it needs to regain its relevance. Conclusion The Champions Trophy 2025 is a tournament caught between the past and the future. While it lacks the glamour and star power of T20 leagues, it still offers a chance for teams to compete for an ICC trophy. The shorter format and competitive matches could make it an exciting event, but its success will depend on how well it adapts to the changing landscape of cricket. For now, the Champions Trophy is back, but whether it can reclaim its former glory remains to be seen.