Will Young etched his name in history by becoming the first batter to score a century in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, reaching the milestone against Pakistan at the National Stadium in Karachi. The New Zealand opener brought up his fourth ODI hundred, ensuring a strong foundation for his team in the Group A clash.
Young, who was drafted into the XI as Rachin Ravindra’s replacement, played a stellar knock, striking 100 off 107 balls with 11 boundaries. His composed innings provided stability to New Zealand after an early setback. As he removed his helmet and acknowledged the applause, the Kiwi batter looked set to push on and build a formidable total for his side.
The achievement places Young among New Zealand’s top centurions in Champions Trophy history, joining the likes of Nathan Astle (145 vs USA, 2004), Chris Cairns (102 vs India, 2000 final), and Kane Williamson (100 vs Australia, 2017)**.
NZ batters with hundreds in Champions Trophy
145* – Nathan Astle vs USA, The Oval, 2004
102* – Chris Cairns vs IND, Nairobi, 2000 Final
100 – Kane Williamson vs AUS, Edgbaston, 2017
100* – Will Young vs PAK, Karachi, 2025
With Tom Latham providing solid support at the other end, New Zealand looked in control, posting 173/3 in 34.3 overs, setting the stage for a competitive total against Pakistan’s bowling attack.