source : ICC
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 opener saw India secure a commanding six-wicket victory over Bangladesh at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The match was a tale of two contrasting innings, with Bangladesh stumbling early before Towhid Hridoy’s heroic century salvaged their total. However, Shubman Gill’s resilient hundred guided India to a comfortable chase, proving his status as the world’s No. 1 ODI batter.
Bangladesh’s innings started on a disastrous note after winning the toss and opting to bat first. The top order collapsed, with the team reeling at 35/5 within the first few overs. Mohammad Shami’s fiery spell, which included a five-wicket haul, wreaked havoc among the Bangladeshi batters. Axar Patel almost claimed a hat-trick but was denied when Rohit Sharma dropped a catch in the slips. Despite the early struggles, Towhid Hridoy displayed immense determination, scoring a century and partnering with Jaker Ali for a record-breaking 154-run sixth-wicket stand. Their efforts helped Bangladesh post a respectable total of 228.
India’s chase began steadily, with Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill adding 69 runs for the first wicket. However, a mini-collapse ensued as Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, and Axar Patel fell cheaply. At 131/4, India looked slightly vulnerable, but Gill, alongside KL Rahul, ensured there were no further hiccups. Gill’s unbeaten 101 off 125 balls was his slowest ODI century, but it was exactly what India needed on a sluggish pitch. Rahul played a crucial supporting role, finishing with 41 not out, as India reached the target with 21 balls to spare.
Despite the thrilling contest, the sparse crowd in Dubai became a major talking point. The empty stands for an India match—usually synonymous with packed stadiums—sparked debates on the relevance of ODI cricket and the future of the Champions Trophy. Many critics questioned the choice of venue and suggested shifting the tournament to a more cricket-passionate nation like Pakistan. However, on the field, India’s dominant performance overshadowed the discussions about attendance.
India will take valuable lessons from this match as they continue their Champions Trophy campaign. While the team showcased its depth and resilience, they will be wary of missed opportunities, including dropped catches that allowed Bangladesh to reach a competitive total. With tougher challenges ahead, India will aim to refine their game plan and strengthen their title bid. Meanwhile, Bangladesh will reflect on their top-order failures and look to bounce back in their next encounter.
