Champion Trophy
The first match of the Champions Trophy will be between New Zealand and Pakistan, who have met twice, including the final between Pakistan and New Zealand, in the tri-nation series a few days ago. Pakistan has lost every match to New Zealand, so it can be said with great confidence that the first match of the Champions Trophy will most likely be very competitive. The previous two matches of the tri-series were played at Pakistan's own venue, while the first match of the Champions Trophy will be held in Karachi, Pakistan. Pakistan is on the back foot at the moment, so the chances of Pakistan beating New Zealand are very low.
What's your opinion?
Yes, I agree with you that the New Zealand team defeated Pakistan in the opening and final match of the tri-series and New Zealand's confidenced a lot after winning the tri-series will be a confidence level up for New Zealand and they will try their best to beat the champions of Africa in the opening match but one thing that the all teams are missing is that Pakistan is a unpredictable team that can do anything at any time. New Zealand, India and Pakistan in a three-strong team from Pakistan's group. I am personally watching Pakistan play the semi-final match in the Champions Trophy. Let's see how the rest of other team perform in champion trophy.
I think teams should be complacent and assume that since they played the previous matches well, they will have an advantage. Every new tornament is different. Yes, New Zealand winning the Tri Nations final, will have the confidence with them but they should not take the Pakistan team lightly.
I think it will be an even game and with Pakistan playing the game in the home ground, ICC tournament coming to their country after a long time, there would be another sort of feeling and atmosphere. On paper, New Zealand team may be strong but on the Pakistan home ground , you can't say with confidence, if they (NZ) would win that first match or not.