Wed Feb 19 17:52:35 UTC 2025: ## India Favourites to Begin Champions Trophy Campaign Against Bangladesh

**Dubai, UAE –** Defending champions India begin their quest for a third Champions Trophy title on Thursday, February 20th, facing Bangladesh in their opening match at the Dubai International Stadium. The match, starting at 1 pm local time (9:00 GMT), will be a crucial test for both teams.

India, ranked number one in ODIs, enters the tournament as clear favourites. Their confidence is boosted by a recent 3-0 ODI series win against England and their decision to play all their matches in the UAE, rather than Pakistan (the host nation), allowing their spin-heavy attack to exploit favourable conditions. Key players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, potentially playing in their final Champions Trophy, will be eager to add another title to their impressive careers. However, they will still be aiming to put the disappointment of their 2023 Cricket World Cup final loss behind them.

Bangladesh, despite slipping to ninth in the ODI rankings and a recent 3-0 series loss to the West Indies, poses a potential threat. Their squad includes match-winners and experienced players, having reached the Champions Trophy semi-finals in 2017. However, they face a significant challenge in the absence of injured all-rounder Shakib al Hasan.

India’s formidable ODI record against Bangladesh (32 wins to 8) underscores the considerable task facing the Tigers. India will likely field a spin-heavy bowling attack featuring Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, and Axar Patel, while the pace attack will depend on the replacement for the injured Jasprit Bumrah.

The match promises to be a fascinating encounter between two teams with contrasting fortunes. Al Jazeera will provide live text and photo commentary throughout.

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