Dubai: The much-anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025 kicked off in electrifying fashion as India took on Bangladesh in their opening clash at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. While the match was played under clear skies in Dubai, rain showers in Kolkata and across parts of India set a dramatic backdrop to India’s thundering victory, with Mohammed Shami scripting history and Shubman Gill lighting up the chase.
Bangladesh’s Rocky Start, Towhid-Zaker’s Resistance
Bangladesh, led by captain Nazmul Hossain Shanto, won the toss and opted to bat first. However, their top order crumbled under the relentless assault of India’s pace-spin duo. The Tigers found themselves in deep trouble at 35/5 in just 9 overs, as the Blue Army’s bowling unit put on a masterclass.
It was only the resilience of Towhid Hridoy and Zaker Ali that gave Bangladesh a fighting chance. The duo stitched together a crucial 154-run partnership for the sixth wicket, rescuing their side from an embarrassing collapse. Towhid’s century (100 off 118 balls) and Zaker’s gritty 68 off 114 balls helped Bangladesh post a modest 228-run target for India.
Shami’s Historic Feat – Fastest to 200 ODI Wickets!
While India’s bowling attack collectively dismantled Bangladesh’s lineup, it was Mohammed Shami who stole the spotlight with his fiery spell. The pace spearhead claimed five wickets for 53 runs in his 10 overs, etching his name into the record books.
Shami became the fastest bowler in ODI history to reach 200 wickets, achieving the feat in just 104 matches and 5,126 deliveries—breaking the previous record held by Australian pacer Mitchell Starc. Shami bettered Starc’s milestone by 114 fewer balls, further cementing his reputation as one of the finest fast bowlers in modern cricket.
ICC Champions Trophy 2025 :Gill’s Century, Rohit’s Milestone
Chasing 228, India’s openers, Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, got off to a fluent start. Rohit, in his typical aggressive style, reached another personal milestone, becoming the second-fastest player in history to complete 11,000 ODI runs. He achieved this feat in style but was dismissed after a quickfire 41 off 36 balls, laced with seven boundaries.
Virat Kohli, who joined Gill at the crease, couldn’t make a big impact, departing for 22 off 38 balls. Shreyas Iyer (15 off 17 balls) and Axar Patel (8 off 12 balls) followed soon after, playing rash shots that cost them their wickets. India found themselves at 144/4, with Bangladesh sensing a possible comeback.
However, Shubman Gill, playing a composed and elegant knock, anchored the chase with an unbeaten 101 off 129 balls. His innings included nine fours and two sixes, showcasing his class and temperament on the big stage. KL Rahul, playing a supporting role, remained unbeaten with 41 off 47 balls, guiding India to a six-wicket victory with 21 balls to spare.
What’s Next? India vs Pakistan on February 23!
With a dominant start to their Champions Trophy campaign, India now shifts focus to the blockbuster clash against arch-rivals Pakistan on February 23. Fans worldwide are eagerly awaiting this high-voltage encounter, where tempers will flare, records will be broken, and cricketing history will be made.
Stay tuned as the Champions Trophy drama unfolds, with Team India roaring ahead in pursuit of the coveted title!
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