Thu Feb 20 13:27:09 UTC 2025: **India Edges Out Bangladesh in Thrilling Champions Trophy Opener**
**Dubai, UAE** – India secured a hard-fought victory over Bangladesh in their opening match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on Thursday at the Dubai International Stadium. Bangladesh, electing to bat first after winning the toss, posted a challenging 228 all out, thanks largely to a magnificent century (100 runs) from Towhid Hridoy (118 balls, 6 fours, 2 sixes) who battled through cramps to anchor the innings. Hridoy and Jaker Ali (68 runs) put on a crucial 154-run partnership for the sixth wicket to rescue Bangladesh from a shaky start. Mohammed Shami was the pick of the Indian bowlers, taking a five-wicket haul (his sixth ODI fifer, and the most for India in the 50-over format) and becoming the fastest Indian to reach 200 ODI wickets. Axar Patel also contributed significantly, claiming three wickets in a row at one point.
India’s chase was not without its moments of tension. Despite dropped catches early in the Bangladesh innings which cost India a much smaller target, India eventually reached their target although the report did not specify the exact score. The match was notable for several key moments, including several dropped catches by the Indian fielders and Hridoy’s determined batting display. The game ended with India victorious. The match was broadcast live on Star Sports Network and Sports18 Network, and streamed on JioHotstar.
First Piper 