ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Why is Rachin Ravindra not playing Pakistan vs New Zealand match? Check New Zealand playing XI

The 2025 Champions Trophy kicks off with an exciting encounter between Pakistan and New Zealand at the National Stadium in Karachi. This marks the first match of the prestigious tournament, and both teams are eager to begin their campaign on a winning note. Interestingly, just five days earlier, Pakistan and New Zealand had faced off in the final of the recently concluded Tri-Nation series, where New Zealand emerged victorious. The match ended with New Zealand’s triumph, but now the stakes are much higher, as they meet again in a tournament where the coveted Champions Trophy title is on the line. The Pakistan vs New Zealand match carries added significance, as both will be aiming to secure an important early victory in a tournament filled with top-tier teams from around the world.

While New Zealand has the psychological edge after their recent win, Pakistan will be determined to bounce back and show their strength in this high-stakes match. The atmosphere will be electric, with both teams aware that every game counts in a tournament of this caliber. With both squads possessing a wealth of talent, the match promises to be a thrilling contest. As the teams step onto the field, the ultimate goal of securing the Champions Trophy title looms large, adding even more intensity and pressure to what promises to be a gripping contest in Karachi.

Pakistan's captain, Mohammad Rizwan, won the toss and chose to bowl first in the opening match of the 2025 Champions Trophy against New Zealand. Rizwan’s decision to field was influenced by the conditions, and his side was eager to capitalize on the early breakthroughs. Haris Rauf, who had been sidelined due to a muscular strain in his lower chest wall, made a welcome return to the team. His presence added strength to Pakistan's bowling attack, offering the squad a much-needed boost for this high-stakes encounter.

On the other hand, New Zealand’s captain, Mitchell Santner, announced that Matt Henry was also back in the playing XI after recovering from his injury. Henry’s return bolstered the Kiwi bowling attack, which had proven effective in the recently concluded Tri-Nation series. However, one significant change for New Zealand was the absence of Rachin Ravindra, who was left out of the squad to allow time for recovery from an injury he sustained during the ODI tri-Series.

“The dew gets on later, but we have a job to do with the bat. Looks like a good wicket. We have a good mix of experience and new faces and are playing some good cricket as well. We have been lucky to play these guys home and away, so we know each other well. What's most important is getting used to the conditions here in Karachi. The injuries we've had are unfortunate, but are confident with the boys that we have out here. Matt Henry comes back in for us,” New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner said during the toss. 

New Zealand playing XI

Devon Conway, Will Young, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham(w), Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner(c), Nathan Smith, Matt Henry, William ORourke.