Thu Feb 20 14:41:33 UTC 2025: ## India Chases Down 229 in Champions Trophy Opener Against Bangladesh

**Dubai, UAE** – India got off to a strong start in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, chasing down a 229-run target set by Bangladesh in their opening match at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on February 20th.

Bangladesh, winning the toss and electing to bat first, posted 228 all out in 49.4 overs. Their innings was hampered by an early collapse, losing two wickets in the first two overs. Mohammed Shami shone for India, claiming five wickets, including the crucial scalps of Soumya Sarkar and Najmul Hossain Shanto in the first two overs. Akash Patel also contributed with two early wickets. However, a 154-run partnership between Towhid Hridoy (100 runs, his maiden ODI century) and Jakir Ali (68 runs) revived Bangladesh’s innings. Harshith Rana also took three crucial wickets.

India’s chase began brilliantly, with Rohit Sharma (41 runs) and Shubman Gill establishing a 69-run opening partnership before Sharma’s dismissal. At the time of writing, India are 115/2, with Shreyas Iyer and Shubman Gill at the crease.

Shami’s five-wicket haul also marked a historic achievement; he became the fastest bowler to reach 200 ODI wickets.

India made some changes to their playing XI, with Arshdeep Singh and Varun Chakravarthy omitted, while Ravindra Jadeja returned. Rishabh Pant was once again left out of the team.

India’s impressive Champions Trophy record (18 wins in 29 matches) and their unbeaten record at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium (5 wins, 1 tie in 6 ODIs) provided a strong foundation for their confident start. Further updates will follow.

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