Will Young's fourth ODI century (107) in the opening fixture of the Champions Trophy match against Pakistan propelled New Zealand to a challenging score 320 for the loss of five wickets at the National Stadium in Karachi. The opener's solid knock stabilized the New Zealand innings after early wickets of Devon Conway (10), and Kane Williamson (1). Alongside Young, wicketkeeper batter Tom Latham also got to form by scoring a fine unbeaten (118).
Young and Latham added 118 runs for the fourth wicket and asserted pressure right back on Pakistan batters. The former was the aggressor of the two, while the latter was happy to play single fiddle. Pakistan skipper tried to break this partnership but could not succeed for a considerable period of time. Finally, Young got out, and the hosts found an opening, but alas, they could not come back into the contest as Glenn Phillips enabled the visitors to finish on a high note.
Young, Latham tons give New Zealand massive advantage
With over 300 runs onboard, Pakistan have let the game drift away despite managing to have a strong start in the power play. Young and Latham's centuries demoralized Pakistan's spirits. Worst, Phillips managed to rub salt into the wounds by scoring a blistering 50, which came off 34 balls. While Chasing is not that difficult in Karachi, Pakistan batters need to have a solid start to hunt the target down.
For New Zealand the task will be simple, just keep attacking and try to take wickets at regular intervals. The winner of this contest will surely have one foot in the pedal for the semis spot in the Champions Trophy.
