New Zealand’s Will Young Hits Tournament’s First Ton in 2025 Champions Trophy

Will Young lit up the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 against Pakistan with a stunning century that came at just the right time for New Zealand. Despite initial losses – losing Devon Conway and Kane Williamson – Young remained calm and constructed intelligent, steady innings. Rather than getting frustrated, he kept the runs coming by rotating the strike and waiting to score at the right times, making the scoreboard keep climbing.

Young wasn't certain he'd even get a shot at playing. Originally planned for the opening slot was Ravindra Jadeja. Due to an injury in the tri-series, Young received a sudden call-up. Taking advantage of the opportunity the 32-year-old managed to achieve his ODI century scoring 107 runs, with 11 boundaries and a six showcasing how patience and timing can often lead to success. 

The turning point of the game was the 118-run stand with Tom Latham, which became the pillar of New Zealand's pursuit. The pair negotiated Pakistan's spinners with ease, combining nicely timed sweeps with consistent scoring. Not only did their stand stabilize the innings but also laid the foundation for a solid team effort.

There was a heart-stopping moment when Young reached 99, with some dot balls mounting pressure, until he broke the jinx finally with an off-drive off Abrar Ahmed. This milestone made him the fourth Kiwi to have a century in the Champions Trophy, following the footsteps of Chris Cairns, Nathan Astle, and Kane Williamson. Unfortunately, his innings were cut short shortly after his century when a pull shot resulted in a breathtaking catch from Faheem Ashraf.

With New Zealand riding high on recent wins against Pakistan and South Africa, this performance gives them extra momentum as they gear up to face Bangladesh and India. Young’s brilliant knock not only boosted his own confidence but also strengthened the team's belief in making the most of unexpected opportunities in the game.

"Yeah, it means a great deal. To get at the start of the Champions Trophy means a lot to me. But to get to a decent total as a team is a great deal after losing quick wickets. We managed to get the ball rolling in the middle overs. It was key for us to get the momentum and to finish that way was icing on the cake." Young said during an interaction with reporters.

"You have to see how the wicket behaves. Batting against the back of the length was difficult. It was turning a fraction too. Hopefully, we will put them under pressure from the word go." Young added.