The opening match of the India vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 delivered an action-packed contest, with India emerging victorious by 6 wickets in a gripping encounter at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Led by Rohit Sharma, India chased down a target of 229 runs with stellar performances from Shubman Gill, Mohammed Shami, Axar Patel, Harshit Rana, and KL Rahul. Bangladesh, captained by Najmol Hossain Shanto, won the toss and opted to bat first. However, they faced early setbacks as India’s bowlers put on a dominant display.
Here are the top 5 highlights from this thrilling match:
1. Mohammed Shami’s Fiery Fifer: A Milestone Moment
Mohammed Shami’s performance with the ball was nothing short of spectacular, as he marked his return to ODI cricket with a brilliant 5-wicket haul. Shami struck early by dismissing Soumya Sarkar and Mehidy Hasan Miraz, creating pressure right from the beginning. He later tore through the middle-order, claiming his 200th ODI wicket with the dismissal of Jaker Ali, who had scored 68 runs. Shami capped off his incredible spell by picking up the final two wickets, those of Tanzim Hasan Sakib and Taskin Ahmed. His superb performance not only helped India bowl out Bangladesh for 228 but also marked a significant personal achievement in his career.
2. Axar Patel’s Near Hat-Trick Moment: Rohit Sharma’s Missed Catch
Axar Patel was just one wicket away from securing a hat-trick, a rare feat in the Champions Trophy, but Rohit Sharma missed an easy catch off Jaker Ali. Axar had already taken two wickets off consecutive deliveries in the 9th over, sending Anzid Hasan Tamim and Mushfiqur Rahim back to the pavilion. A catch by Rohit would have made Axar only the second bowler in Champions Trophy history to achieve a hat-trick, after Jerome Taylor in 2006. Despite the missed opportunity, Axar’s crucial spell kept Bangladesh in check and prevented them from building any significant partnerships early on.
3. Rohit Sharma’s Historic 11,000 ODI Runs: Second Fastest to Reach the Milestone
Rohit Sharma added another record to his illustrious career, becoming the second fastest player to 11,000 ODI runs. During his 41-run knock, Rohit surpassed this milestone in 261 innings, only behind Virat Kohli, who reached the feat in 222 innings. Sharma’s milestone came in the middle of a steady opening partnership with Shubman Gill, as India put on 69 runs in the first 10 overs. Rohit’s consistent brilliance at the top of the order continues to be a key factor in India’s success.
4. Shubman Gill’s Maiden ICC Event Century: A Game-Changing Knock
India’s chase seemed a bit shaky after Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli fell cheaply, but Shubman Gill once again proved his class. Holding the innings together, Gill brought up his 8th ODI century, and more importantly, his first-ever century in an ICC event. With his steady approach and unshakable composure, Gill anchored the chase, finishing unbeaten on 101 runs. His innings guided India through a tough phase, as he saw off Bangladesh’s spinners with ease and ensured that India stayed in control of the game.
5. KL Rahul’s Stabilizing Role: The Finisher India Needed
The middle overs presented a bit of turbulence for India, with wickets falling at regular intervals. However, KL Rahul came to the rescue, playing a calm and composed knock to steer India closer to victory. Rahul scored 41 runs off 47 balls, playing an essential role in managing the innings and finding the boundaries when required. His knock helped India recover from a mini-collapse and ensure the chase was completed without further mishaps. Rahul’s presence at the crease showcased why he was preferred over Rishabh Pant, as his experience came in handy in a crucial moment.
Final Thoughts: India’s Complete Performance
In this high-octane India vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy 2025 encounter, India displayed a dominant all-round performance. From Shami’s historic fifer to Gill’s match-winning century, the game was a showcase of India’s strength in both batting and bowling. The Indian side will look to build on this comprehensive win as they progress further in the tournament.
