Thu Feb 20 17:11:41 UTC 2025: ## India Wins Champions Trophy Opener Against Bangladesh
**Dubai, UAE –** India secured a convincing 6-wicket victory over Bangladesh in the opening match of the Champions Trophy on Thursday. Shubman Gill starred with a century (101*), his first in an ICC tournament, leading India to a comfortable chase of 229.
Bangladesh, electing to bat first, posted a total of 228 runs. Towhid Hridoy top-scored for Bangladesh with a century of his own. India’s chase was punctuated by Gill’s impressive knock, supported by contributions from Rohit Sharma (41), KL Rahul (38), and Virat Kohli (22). Rahul finished the game with a six, sealing the victory for India in the 47th over.
Mohammed Shami was the pick of the Indian bowlers, taking 5 wickets, while Harshit Rana and Axar Patel claimed 3 and 2 wickets respectively. While Bangladesh’s innings showed resilience after a shaky start (39/5), India’s strong batting performance ultimately proved decisive. Despite losing three wickets in the middle overs, India’s chase remained firmly under control thanks to Gill’s and Rahul’s partnerships.
The match saw some exciting moments, including dropped catches that could have swung the momentum in Bangladesh’s favour, but ultimately India’s superior batting and bowling proved too strong. Rohit Sharma also reached the milestone of 11,000 ODI runs during the match. The win marks a strong start for India in the Champions Trophy.
First Piper 