The countdown is over. Pakistan are set to take on New Zealand in the opening match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, and there’s good news for the home side—Haris Rauf is back!
The fast bowler, who suffered a chest strain earlier this month, is expected to be fully fit for the big clash. Captain Mohammad Rizwan confirmed the positive update, saying Rauf had been bowling with full rhythm in the nets and feeling no discomfort.
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“He bowled 6-8 overs a couple of days ago and bowled a fair bit yesterday too,” Rizwan shared at the pre-tournament press conference. “He’s also putting in the work in the gym and isn’t complaining of any pains. We think he’s fully fit.”
That’s a huge relief for Pakistan, who can now unleash their best bowling attack—Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf—against the Blackcaps.
A Tough Start Awaits
While Rauf’s return is a boost, there’s no denying that Pakistan have a mountain to climb. New Zealand dominated them twice in the recent tri-series, winning the tournament without breaking a sweat. They defended a total in one game and chased with ease in another, exposing Pakistan’s inconsistencies.
Plus, they’ve dealt with injuries better than most teams. Lockie Ferguson and Ben Sears are sidelined, but the Kiwis still have plenty of firepower. Their fast bowlers can rattle any batting lineup, and their spinners keep things tight in the middle overs.
So, are Pakistan underdogs in this opener? Maybe. But Rizwan doesn’t see it that way.
Rizwan’s Quiet Hunger
“We suffered for 10 years when no side came here,” Rizwan reminded everyone, referring to Pakistan’s long cricketing exile. “But we still produced solid results. So we have no doubts about our ability.”
Yet, beneath his usual optimism, there was something different. Rizwan is known for his faith-driven, calm approach. He often talks about “the will of Allah” and keeping pressure off. But this time, there was an edge to his words—a hunger for an ICC title, a desperation to win at home.
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“We’ve come so close a few times,” he admitted. “We need to find that extra one per cent to win those big matches. Every player is desperate for this title.”
For a team that has seen heartbreak in knockout games, this tournament is about more than just cricket. It’s about proving they can cross the final hurdle. It’s about winning in front of their own crowd. It’s about redemption.
A Title to Defend, A Statement to Make
Pakistan are not just another team in this tournament—they are the defending champions. They know what it takes to lift this trophy. But they also know the challenge ahead.
The opening game is more than just a match. It’s a test of character. A statement of intent. A chance to show the world that Pakistan cricket, playing an ICC event at home after nearly three decades, is here to fight.
The road to glory starts now. And for Rizwan and his men, the only way forward is through.
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