Fri Feb 21 04:52:29 UTC 2025: ## Gill’s Century Powers India to Champions Trophy Victory Over Bangladesh

**Dubai, UAE:** Shubman Gill smashed a stunning century (101* off 129 balls), his second in a row, to lead India to a convincing victory over Bangladesh in their opening match of the Champions Trophy 2025. India successfully chased down a challenging 229-run target.

Gill’s masterful knock anchored India’s innings after the early dismissal of captain Rohit Sharma (41), who was dismissed by Taskin Ahmed. A brief middle-order wobble, triggered by Bangladesh leg-spinner Rishad Hossain, saw the loss of Virat Kohli (22) and Axar Patel (8). However, Gill and KL Rahul (41*) steadied the ship with an 87-run partnership to see India home.

Earlier, Mohammed Shami produced a sensational comeback performance, claiming a five-wicket haul (5/53) and surpassing Zaheer Khan as India’s leading wicket-taker in ICC ODI tournaments. His impressive spell included the dismissals of Soumya Sarkar and Mehidy Hasan Miraz. Axar Patel also contributed, taking two quick wickets.

Despite Shami’s brilliance, Bangladesh mounted a late fightback thanks to a record-breaking 154-run partnership for the sixth wicket between Jaker Ali (68) and Tawhid Hridoy. Hridoy’s impressive innings helped Bangladesh reach a respectable total exceeding 200.

The victory moves India into second place in Group A, setting up a crucial clash against Pakistan on Sunday in Dubai. Bangladesh will face New Zealand in Rawalpindi next week.

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