Journal logo
Content warning
This story may contain sensitive material or discuss topics that some readers may find distressing. Reader discretion is advised. The views and opinions expressed in this story are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Vocal.

Pakistan vs New Zealand and UP-W vs DEL-W

Cricket Action Today: Key Matches and Insights for 18th Feb 2025

By Mandip PPublished 11 months ago 3 min read

Cricket fans across the globe are gearing up for some exciting action today as two thrilling matches are set to take place.

1. Champions Trophy 2025, Match 1: PAK vs NZ - ODI Cricket

The first match of the Champions Trophy 2025 features two cricketing giants: Pakistan (PAK) and New Zealand (NZ). Both teams have been in fantastic form, and fans are eagerly awaiting this opening contest. Here’s everything you need to know:

Pitch Report

  • Pitch: Flat Track Pitch
  • Batting Condition: Average
  • Pace Bowling: Expect decent pace and bounce from the pitch.
  • Spin Bowling: Spin bowlers will find some assistance, but it won’t be a major factor.

Team Analysis

Pakistan (PAK):

  • Key Players: Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Shaheen Afridi
  • Strengths: Pakistan’s top order, led by Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman, will need to put on a solid performance. Shaheen Afridi’s pace and bounce will be crucial, especially with a flat pitch that offers minimal assistance to the bowlers.

New Zealand (NZ):

  • Key Players: Kane Williamson (c), Devon Conway (wk), Daryl Mitchell, Lockie Ferguson
  • Strengths: Kane Williamson brings experience and calmness to the crease. With the presence of aggressive players like Daryl Mitchell and Devon Conway, New Zealand has the firepower to dominate. Lockie Ferguson’s pace and Mitchell Santner’s spin will be key to restricting Pakistan.

Injury Updates

  • Rachin Ravindra (NZ) and Haris Rauf (PAK) are likely to miss the match due to injuries.
  • Captain and Vice Captain Picks:

  • Captain: Daryl Mitchell, Kane Williamson
  • Vice Captain: Fakhar Zaman, Agha Salman

2. WPL 2025, Match 6: UP-W vs DEL-W

In the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2025, we have another exciting contest between the UP Warriorz (UP-W) and Delhi Capitals Women (DEL-W). This clash promises some intense action, with both teams filled with quality players who can turn the game at any moment.

Pitch Report

  • Pitch: Slow & Dusty Pitch
  • Batting Condition: Average
  • Pace Bowling: Average pace
  • Spin Bowling: Spin bowlers are expected to thrive on this surface, with the ball gripping and turning.

Team Analysis

UP Warriorz (UP-W):

  • Key Players: Deepti Sharma, Grace Harris, Shweta Sehrawat, Tahlia McGrath
  • Strengths: Deepti Sharma’s all-round abilities make her a key player, alongside Grace Harris and Tahlia McGrath’s explosive batting. The bowling attack, led by Rajeshwari Gayakwad and Sophie Ecclestone, will be crucial in controlling the match.

Delhi Capitals Women (DEL-W):

  • Key Players: Meg Lanning (c), Shafali Verma, Jemimah Rodrigues, Marizanne Kapp
  • Strengths: Meg Lanning is one of the best in the business, and alongside players like Shafali Verma and Jemimah Rodrigues, Delhi has an explosive top order. Marizanne Kapp’s all-round performances will be critical, and Shikha Pandey’s pace can disrupt UP’s batting line-up.

Captain and Vice Captain Picks:

  • Captain: Meg Lanning, Deepti Sharma
  • Vice Captain: Shafali Verma, Tahlia McGrath

Match Day Summary:

PAK vs NZ: This match is likely to be a close contest, with both teams having strengths in both batting and bowling. However, New Zealand’s experienced squad, combined with their solid all-rounders, could give them the edge. Pakistan will need their top order to fire, with Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman being key players for them.

UP-W vs DEL-W: The slow pitch is expected to favor spin bowlers, which could play into the hands of players like Deepti Sharma and Sophie Ecclestone for UP Warriorz. Delhi Capitals Women, with their strong top order and all-rounders, will need to adjust quickly to the conditions to get ahead.

Conclusion:

With these two exciting matches, cricket fans are in for an action-packed day. Make sure to keep an eye on the pitch conditions, injury updates, and team line-ups. Whether you’re backing Pakistan or New Zealand, or cheering for UP Warriorz or Delhi Capitals Women, today's matches promise to offer plenty of drama and thrills!

Happy Cricketing!

advice

About the Creator

Mandip P

Mandip Prajapati, a SEO cricket writer at Cricket Gully, brings fans closer to the game with engaging, accurate stories. A lifelong cricket fan, he admires Sachin Tendulkar and loves sharing the sport’s magic.

Reader insights

Be the first to share your insights about this piece.

How does it work?

Add your insights

Comments

There are no comments for this story

Be the first to respond and start the conversation.

Sign in to comment

    Find us on social media

    Miscellaneous links

    • Explore
    • Contact
    • Privacy Policy
    • Terms of Use
    • Support

    © 2026 Creatd, Inc. All Rights Reserved.