Glenn Phillips catch of Rizwan Video | New Zealand Crush Defending Champions Pakistan by 60 Runs in Karachi Thriller | PAK vs NZ Highlights

New Zealand started their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign in dominant fashion, securing a resounding 60-run victory over defending champions Pakistan at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi. However, while the emphatic win was built on strong batting performances and disciplined bowling, the moment that truly defined the match was Glenn Phillips’ breathtaking catch to dismiss Pakistan’s captain, Mohammad Rizwan.

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Phillips’ One-Handed Magic Turns the Tide

Chasing a stiff target of 321 runs, Pakistan’s innings got off to a shaky start, losing early wickets in quick succession. The defining moment arrived in the 10th over when William O’Rourke bowled a short and wide delivery, luring Rizwan into a powerful cut shot. Positioned at backward point, Phillips reacted with lightning speed, diving to his left and extending his left hand fully to pluck the ball out of the air.

It was a catch that silenced the packed Karachi crowd of 30,000, leaving even Rizwan in disbelief as he walked back after managing only 3 runs off 14 balls. The dismissal sent shockwaves through the Pakistan dressing room, as the early loss of their captain put them on the back foot in a crucial run chase.

Pakistan’s Struggle Against a Clinical Kiwi Attack

Already under pressure after Rizwan’s departure, Pakistan’s batting order struggled to regain composure. Babar Azam and Khushdil Shah attempted to resurrect the innings with well-constructed half-centuries, but the damage had already been done. New Zealand’s disciplined bowling attack kept the pressure on, forcing errors and restricting the scoring rate.

With the required run rate mounting, Pakistan lost wickets at regular intervals, eventually getting bowled out for 260 in 47.2 overs. The 60-run defeat highlighted their struggles with both early wickets and middle-order stability, leaving them with plenty to ponder ahead of their next clash against arch-rivals India.

New Zealand’s Batting Fireworks Set the Stage

Earlier in the day, New Zealand set a formidable total of 320 for five, thanks to brilliant centuries from Will Young and Tom Latham. Young played a composed yet aggressive knock of 107, laying the foundation for a strong finish. Latham, leading from the front, remained unbeaten on 118, steering his team towards a commanding total.

Phillips, who made headlines with his stunning catch, also made a significant impact with the bat. His explosive 61 off just 39 balls provided the final flourish, ensuring New Zealand crossed the 300-run mark. Pakistan’s bowlers struggled to contain the Kiwi batters, particularly in the final overs, conceding crucial runs that made a massive difference in the end.

Rizwan Reflects on Pakistan’s Defeat

Speaking after the match, Rizwan acknowledged that his team had fallen short in key areas. He pointed to the struggles in the death overs while bowling and the unfortunate injury to Fakhar Zaman, which disrupted their batting combination. However, he was quick to credit New Zealand’s all-round performance, singling out Phillips’ game-changing catch as a moment that shifted momentum irreversibly.

“We started well with the ball, but credit to New Zealand for finishing strong. That catch from Phillips was a special moment in the match and turned things against us. We need to regroup and come back stronger,” Rizwan admitted.

A Catch That Will Be Remembered for Years

While cricket fans have witnessed some spectacular catches over the years, Phillips’ grab to dismiss Rizwan is already being hailed as one of the best in Champions Trophy history. His agility, anticipation, and sheer athleticism not only provided a memorable moment but also played a crucial role in New Zealand’s victory.

With this win, New Zealand has made a strong statement in the tournament, while Pakistan faces the challenge of bouncing back against India. As the tournament progresses, fans can expect more drama, but Phillips’ stunning catch has already secured its place as one of the standout moments of the Champions Trophy 2025.